Frequently asked questions for Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel
Q. What is Clopidogrel used for?
Clopidogrel is used to prevent formation of blood clots, thus reducing the risk of heart attacks or stroke. It facilitates smooth circulation of blood in the body by reducing the ability of the platelets to stick together, that could otherwise lead to formation of harmful clots in hardened blood vessels.Q. Is Clopidogrel a blood thinner?
Yes, Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medicine which is also known as a blood thinner. It makes your blood flow more easily through your blood vessels and prevents formation of harmful blood clots. This lowers your chances of heart attack or stroke.Q. When should you take Clopidogrel?
You should take Clopidogrel exactly as prescribed by the doctor. You can take it with or without food, at any time of the day. However, it is important to take it regularly at the same time each day for best results. This will also help you to remember to take it daily.Q. Does Clopidogrel affect blood pressure?
Yes, Clopidogrel may rarely cause a decrease in blood pressure as a side effect. However, this is very rare and does not affect everyone. Consult your doctor if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, weak or have a blurred vision. These are signs and symptoms of low blood pressure and therefore, you should contact your doctor immediately.Q. Who should not take Clopidogrel?
Clopidogrel is not recommended for people who are allergic to it, have severe liver disease, have stomach ulcers, bleeding in the brain, or have a bleeding disorder known as hemophilia (disease in which blood does not clot normally).Q. Can Omeprazole be taken along with Clopidogrel?
Omeprazole ( a proton pump inhibitor or PPI used to treat and prevent indigestion) may interfere with the working of Clopidogrel and reduce the effect of Clopidogrel. Your doctor may prescribe an alternate PPI like lansoprazole, if you suffer from indigestion or if they judge that it would be beneficial to you. You should let your doctor know about all the medicines that have been prescribed to you before starting Clopidogrel. Always consult your doctor before taking any medicine.Q. What will happen if I stop taking Clopidogrel?
If you stop taking Clopidogrel suddenly, your chances of heart attack or stroke may increase. These conditions can be fatal. Do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor, otherwise your condition may worsen. Continue taking Clopidogrel for as long as prescribed by your doctor to get maximum benefit.Q. How long does it take Clopidogrel to start working? How long do I need to take it?
Clopiogrel starts working within 2 hours of taking it. Continue taking it as long as your doctor has advised you. You may have to take it for a few weeks or months, or you may have to take it for the rest of your life.Q. What are the side effects of taking Clopidogrel?
The most common side effect of Clopidogrel is bleeding. This may lead to bruising on the skin, nosebleeds, blood in the urine or stools (black tarry stools), or heavier periods than usual in females. Rarely, bleeding may also occur in the head, eyes, lungs, or joints and may even be severe. In case you have a minor injury, such as a small cut while shaving, bleeding may take longer than usual to stop. Get emergency medical help if the bleeding is profuse, does not stop on it’s own, or bothers you. Other side effects of Clopidogrel that may be seen occasionally in some people include diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion or heartburn. Please consult your doctor if any of these side effects persist or worry you.Q. Can I take alcohol with Clopidogrel?
Yes, you can take alcohol with Clopidogrel. However, excessive intake of alcohol should be avoided as it can irritate the inner lining of the stomach and this increases the risk of developing a stomach ulcer later.