IMPORTANT NOTE: THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO SUPPLEMENT, NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR, THE EXPERTISE AND JUDGMENT OF YOUR PHYSICIAN, PHARMACIST OR OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. IT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO INDICATE THAT USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR YOU. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING THIS DRUG.

 

Drug Name: Clopidogrel (klo-PIDD-oh-grel)(Oral medication)

Common Brand Name: Plavix

Generic availability in Canada: no generic currently available

Uses: Clopidogrel is used to prevent heart attacks and strokes in persons with heart disease (recent heart attack, unstable angina), recent stroke, or blood circulation disease (peripheral vascular disease). It works by blocking certain blood cells called platelets and prevents them from forming harmful blood clots. This "anti-platelet" effect helps to keep blood flowing smoothly in your body.

How to use: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily, with or without food, or as directed by your physician. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day