What is "clopidogrel"

n. Category:en:DrugsAn oral antiplatelet agent used to inhibit blood clots in coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease, having the chemical formula C₁₆H₁₆ClNO₂S

Clopidogrel ( INN) is an oral, thienopyridine-class antiplatelet agent used to inhibit blood clots in coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and to prevent myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke. It is marketed by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Sanofi under the trade name Plavix. The drug works by irreversibly inhibiting a receptor called P2Y, an adenosine diphosphate (ADP) chemoreceptor on platelet cell membranes. Adverse effects include bleeding and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.

It is on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, the most important medications needed in a basic health system. Before the expiry of its patent, clopidogrel was the second best-selling drug in the world. In 2010, it grossed over US$9 billion in global sales.