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What exactly is Clopidogrel? What is its composition and are there any contraindications to the use of the preparation? It is an agent that is designed to inhibit platelet aggregation, which means that it is an antiplatelet drug. Clopidogrel is available as 75 mg film-coated tablets. There are 28 tablets in the package. The remedy is available only by prescription.
The active substance is Clopidogrel, a thienopyridine derivative. It is an antiplatelet agent, i.e. it affects platelet aggregation, which is the natural process of blood clotting. However, it happens that pathological clots occur in the clotting process. These types of changes may lead to blood clots, heart attack or stroke, which is why preparations such as Clopidogrel are used in treatment and prophylaxis.
Clopidogrel – how it works
Clopidogrel is a so-called prodrug, meaning that it needs to be converted to its active form, otherwise it has no pharmacological activity. Platelet aggregation is caused by the active metabolite contained in the preparation, which is produced in the liver with the participation of cytochrome P450 isoenzymes. The metabolite binds to the platelet receptors for ADP leading to inhibition of ADP-induced platelet aggregation. Plates that are exposed to clopidogrel are exposed to clopidogrel for up to 10 days, after which a new generation of platelets must recover and work properly again.
Clopidogrel is absorbed very quickly into the liver, where it is converted into its active form. The maximum concentration of the agent is reached after 45 minutes, and the maximum concentration of the active metabolite is reached after about an hour. The measure starts working on the first day after taking it, while its most effective effect is on the 3rd – 7th day after taking the drug.
The drug is recommended primarily in the prevention of atherosclerosis, especially in adults after a heart attack, diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, with acute coronary syndrome, with peripheral arterial disease.
Clopidogrel – contraindications
Of course, as with other agents, there are contraindications to the use of the drug in the case of Clopidogrel. The drug should be discontinued in case of hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients. Clopidogrel is not recommended for people who have been diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease or acute liver problems. Clopidogrel should not be given to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
In some ailments, it may also be advisable to change the dose of the drug. In some cases, it is also necessary to conduct systematic check-ups. In the event that antiplatelet action is inadvisable, such as a patient who will be undergoing surgery, the drug should be discontinued. It is also not advisable to take Clopidogrel together with other antiplatelet drugs. Particular care must be taken when treating the drug in people diagnosed with renal disorders. You should inform your doctor about any unusual bleeding.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.