Clopidogrel is used to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in patients who have already had a heart attack, stroke, or severe chest pain. It is also given as a preventative measure against heart attack or stroke to patients who have been diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome (a condition in which blood flow to the heart is blocked), peripheral arterial disease (a circulatory condition in which narrowed blood vessels prevent blood flow), or who have had a stent placed in one of the arteries of their heart.

It is important to note that clopidogrel is not used to treat heart attacks or strokes that are occurring. It is used to prevent these life-threatening complications in individuals who are at greater risk for them (i.e., those who have already had these problems, or those with the circulatory conditions listed above).

Clopidogrel may be prescribed alone or in conjunction with aspirin.

Clopidogrel belongs to a classification of medication known as antiplatelet medication. Antiplatelet medication works by preventing platelets in blood cells from collecting and clotting. Blood clots can lead to blockage in blood vessels, which can dramatically increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.

Clopidogrel is not prescribed to treat a stroke or heart attack that’s already occurring. Instead, it prevents these life-threatening conditions in individuals who have a history of heart attack or stroke, as well as individuals who are managing acute coronary syndrome or coronary artery disease.

Clopidogrel has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported from clopidogrel use include:

• Fatigue
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Headache
  
• Nosebleeds
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Dizziness
  

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects caused by clopidogrel. If you experience any severe symptoms, such as hives, shortness of breath, skin rash, swelling, changes in heart rate or blood pressure, severe headaches, or confusion, contact your doctor immediately.

As with all prescription medications, inform your prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have and any medications and supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with clopidogrel. Clopidogrel can interact with other forms of medication and substances, leading to potentially serious side effects. Be sure to let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with clopidogrel. If you become pregnant while taking clopidogrel, talk to your health care provider immediately.

Clopidogrel is commonly supplied as an oral tablet. This medication can be taken with or without food. The exact dosage will vary depending on the age of the patient and their body weight.

You may be prescribed aspirin in conjunction with clopidogrel. These medications should be taken at the same time. Dosage may be adjusted as needed.

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of clopidogrel without consulting your doctor first. If you experience any adverse reactions, talk to your health care provider right away.

Clopidogrel is currently only available via prescription. This means that the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write you a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not clopidogrel might be right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Yes! Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions, including clopidogrel prescriptions, are at the discretion of your clinician.