Clopidogrel

About clopidogrel

Clopidogrel is used for patients who have recently had a heart attack or stroke, or for those at risk of suffering from a heart attack or stroke. It may be used on it's own, or with other antiplatelet medicines.

When you cut yourself, the platelets stick to each other (clot) to seal the wound. Clopidogrel, taken regularly, reduces the stickiness of these platelets, therefore thinning the blood slightly and helping to prevent unwanted blood clots from forming within the body.

Before taking clopidogrel

Before taking clopidogrel make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer from any blood disorders.
• If you are have had surgery recently or are at risk of bleeding for any reason.
• If you suffer from stomach ulcers.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you suffer from the rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption.

How to take clopidogrel

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
• Clopidogrel is usually taken once a day.
• Do not stop taking clopidogrel, without speaking to your doctor first.
• Try to take clopidogrel at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you miss a dose of clopidogrel take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking it at the usual times. Never take two doses at the same time. If in doubt speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Clopidogrel is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of clopidogrel contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Where possible take the container with you, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not take any 'over-the-counter' medicines while you are taking clopidogrel unless you have checked with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside clopidogrel. Many preparations available may not be suitable for you to take.
• Clopidogrel can cause dizziness. Make sure you know how you react to clopidogrel before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were to become dizzy.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking clopidogrel.
• Whilst you are taking clopidogrel, it might take longer than normal to stop bleeding if you cut yourself. If the bleeding continues or if you notice any unexplained bleeding, contact your doctor.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be checked.

Can clopidogrel cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects (these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine): diarrhoea, abdominal pain, indigestion, bruising and bleeding.

Less common effects include feeling or being sick, stomach discomfort or pain, constipation, headache, dizziness, loss of balance, pins and needles, skin rashes or itching.

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any blackened stools, any unusual bruising or bleeding, or any unexplained flu-like symptoms, a high temperature, extreme tiredness, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

How to store clopidogrel

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines