Heart Disease Channel
Topics
Medications
Quicklinks
Related Channels
Clopidogrel Bisulfate
If you have recently had a heart attack, stroke, or severe chest pain requiring hospitalization, a healthcare provider may prescribe clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix®). This drug is used to prevent blood clots from forming.
Clopidogrel is available in tablet form and is usually taken once a day. Although most people tolerate it well, this product is not suitable for everyone. Common side effects include but are not limited to:
Because clopidogrel can increase the risk for major or life-threatening bleeding, contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice that it takes longer for bleeding to stop, or if you have any unusual bleeding.
(To read more about this antiplatelet drug, click Clopidogrel. Other topics discussed in this article include how it works, what to do in cases of overdose, and the factors that will affect your dose.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD