Precautions and Warnings for Clopidogrel

Precautions and warnings for clopidogrel involve such things as telling your doctor about any active bleeding you are experiencing. People with active bleeding (such as bleeding that results from a stomach ulcer) should not take clopidogrel. It's important to remember that clopidogrel may interact with a number of different drugs, including over-the-counter medications such as aspirin. Other precautions and warnings for clopidogrel users include an increased risk for developing a rare condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, or TTP for short.

 

Precautions and Warnings for Clopidogrel: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking
 clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix®) if you have:
 
  • Active bleeding anywhere in your body, such as a stomach ulcer or bleeding within the head (type of stroke)
  • A bleeding or blood disorder
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Any allergies
  • Had any recent injuries or surgeries.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are going to have any type of surgery or other invasive procedures
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
     
If after starting clopidogrel, you feel that it takes longer than normal for you to stop bleeding, even after a minor cut, you should contact your doctor.
 
Also, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Precautions and Warnings for Clopidogrel Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;