Clopidogrel

It is a thienopyridine that irreversibly inhibits platelet aggregation. Clopidogrel selectively inhibits the binding of adnosine diphosphate (ADP) to its platelet receptor and the subsequent ADP-mediated activation of the glycoprotein GPIIb/IIIa complex, thereby inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Indications

Reduction of athero-sclerotic events (MI, stroke, and vascular death) in patients with atherosclerosis documented by recent stroke, recent MI, or established peripheral arterial disease

Dosage

Adults: 75mg once daily with or without food.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity, peptic ulcer or intracranial haemorrhage

Special Precautions

Patients at risk of increased bleeding from trauma, surgery, hepatic impairment.

Side Effects

Neutropenia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, diarrhoea, rash pruritus and abdominal comfort.

Drug Interactions

Aspirin :Potentiates the effect of aspirin on collagen-induced platelet aggregation. NSAIDs: Risk of increased occult gastrointestinal blood loss. Phenytoin, tamoxifen, tolbutamide, warfarin, torsemide, fluvastatin: since clopidogrel in hibits CYP4502C9 it may interfere with the metabolism of these drugs.