Last reviewed · How we verify
Clopidogrel (Iscover/Plavix)
Clopidogrel irreversibly inhibits platelet aggregation by blocking the P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate receptor on platelets.
Clopidogrel irreversibly inhibits platelet aggregation by blocking the P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate receptor on platelets. Used for Acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina and non-ST elevation myocardial infarction), ST-elevation myocardial infarction, Peripheral arterial disease.
At a glance
| Generic name | Clopidogrel (Iscover/Plavix) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Iscover 75 mg filmtablets, Plavix 75 mg filmtablets |
| Sponsor | Stiftung Institut fuer Herzinfarktforschung |
| Drug class | P2Y12 receptor antagonist / Thienopyridine antiplatelet agent |
| Target | P2Y12 receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Cardiovascular |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Clopidogrel is a thienopyridine prodrug that requires hepatic metabolism to its active form. The active metabolite binds irreversibly to the P2Y12 receptor on platelet surfaces, preventing ADP-induced platelet activation and aggregation. This antiplatelet effect reduces thrombotic events in patients at risk of arterial thrombosis.
Approved indications
- Acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina and non-ST elevation myocardial infarction)
- ST-elevation myocardial infarction
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack
- Secondary prevention of atherothrombotic events
Common side effects
- Bleeding
- Dyspepsia
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
- Neutropenia
Key clinical trials
- The Effect and Safety of Combined Anti-platelet Treatment in Acute Ischemic Stroke Due to Large Artery Atherosclerosis (PHASE4)
- Short-Term Anticoagulation Versus Antiplatelet Therapy for Preventing Device Thrombosis Following Left Atrial Appendage Closure (PHASE4)
- Randomized Clinical Trial of Endovascular Recanalization for Symptomatic Non-Acute Intracranial Artery Occlusion(REPAIR) (NA)
- PFO Closure, Oral Anticoagulants or Antiplatelet Therapy After PFO-associated Stroke in Patients Aged 60 to 80 Years (PHASE3)
- Clopidogrel vs. Aspirin for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction in Patients With S. Aureus Bacteremia (PHASE4)
- Precision Reperfusion Therapy for Disabling Minor Stroke With Large Vessel Occlusion Beyond Time Window (PHASE3)
- SIMPLAAFY Clinical Trial (NA)
- INdobufen Versus asPirin in Endovascular Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms Treatment (INPUT) (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape: