What does it do?

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

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have bleeding problems.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take clopidogrel regularly as directed with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. 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. 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 bleeding Coughing or vomiting of blood, vomit that looks like coffee grounds Nose bleeds Red or black bowel motions, red or dark brown urine Headache, dizziness, changes in vision or speech Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing	Tell your doctor immediately
Easy or unusual bruising	Tell your doctor

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

Other information:

• It is important to tell anyone who gives you medical or dental treatment that you are taking clopidogrel.
• Grapefruit, grapefruit juice or sour/Seville oranges may react with clopidogrel. Discuss with your pharmacist.