What does it do?

Clopidogrel is used to prevent clots forming in your blood. It reduces your risk of having a stroke or a heart attack.

How should you take it?

Take clopidogrel regularly as directed with a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with clopidogrel including:

• anti-inflammatories, such as diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren®), ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen®), or aspirin (e.g. Disprin®, in doses used for pain relief). These can also be found in some cold and flu medicines (e.g. Nurofen Cold and Flu®).
• omeprazole (e.g. Losec®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. ginkgo, St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Reduced number of blood cells that help your blood to clot - symptoms include: easy or unusual bruising or bleeding Nose bleeds Red or black bowel motions Red or dark brown urine Headache, dizziness, changes in vision or speech	Tell your doctor immediately
Tiredness, pale skin Short of breath Chest pain	Tell your doctor
Stomach upset	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Tell your doctor if you have liver or bleeding problems.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• It is important to tell anyone who gives you medical or dental treatment that you are taking clopidogrel.