Clopidogrel, marketed under the name Plavix, is a drug used to help keep harmful blood clots from forming. This eMedTV Web page explains how clopidogrel works and looks at dosage guidelines for the medicine, as well as side effects it may cause.
As this eMedTV article explains, clopidogrel is used to help prevent harmful blood clots from forming in people who have had recent heart attacks or strokes, as well as those with other conditions.
Common side effects of clopidogrel may include major bleeding, headaches, flu-like symptoms, and pain. This eMedTV resource provides a list of some of the common side effects associated with clopidogrel; less common side effects are also discussed.
The standard clopidogrel dosage is one 75 mg tablet taken once a day. This portion of the eMedTV library discusses other considerations to be aware of involving taking clopidogrel, such as taking the medication at the same time each day.
As this eMedTV segment explains, some drug interactions with clopidogrel (such as those that may occur with NSAIDs) may increase the risk of serious bleeding. This article discusses some of the possible interactions that may occur with clopidogrel.
There are precautions and warnings to be aware of when taking clopidogrel. As this eMedTV Web page explains, precautions and warnings for clopidogrel users include being aware of an increased risk for getting thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
