Last reviewed · How we verify
Clopidogrel loading
Clopidogrel is a prodrug that irreversibly inhibits platelet aggregation by blocking the P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate receptor.
Clopidogrel is a prodrug that irreversibly inhibits platelet aggregation by blocking the P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate receptor. Used for Acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina, NSTEMI, STEMI), Secondary prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with recent myocardial infarction, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease.
At a glance
| Generic name | Clopidogrel loading |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Azienda Policlinico Umberto I |
| Drug class | P2Y12 receptor antagonist / Thienopyridine antiplatelet agent |
| Target | P2Y12 receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Cardiovascular |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Clopidogrel requires hepatic metabolism to its active form, which then binds irreversibly to the P2Y12 receptor on platelet surfaces. This prevents ADP-induced platelet activation and aggregation, reducing thrombotic events. A loading dose is used to rapidly achieve platelet inhibition in acute clinical settings.
Approved indications
- Acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina, NSTEMI, STEMI)
- Secondary prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with recent myocardial infarction, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease
Common side effects
- Bleeding
- Dyspepsia
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
Key clinical trials
- Clopidogrel vs. Aspirin for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction in Patients With S. Aureus Bacteremia (PHASE4)
- Combination Antithrombotic Treatment for Prevention of Recurrent Ischemic Stroke in IntraCranial Atherosclerotic diseaSe (CATIS- ICAS) (PHASE3)
- Comparison of Anti-coagulation and Anti-Platelet Therapies for Intracranial Vascular Atherostenosis (PHASE3)
- Efficacy and Safety of Tirofiban for Patients With BAD (BRANT) (PHASE3)
- A Study to Evaluate Safety and PK of Multiple Doses of LT3001 Drug Product and Drug-drug Interaction in Healthy Subjects (PHASE1)
- ATILA Project: Aspirin Versus Tirofiban in Endovascular Treatment for Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke Due to Tandem Lesion (PHASE4)
- Aspirin and a PoTent P2Y12 Inhibitor Versus Aspirin and Clopidogrel in Patients Undergoing PCI for Complex Lesion (PHASE4)
- Effects of Low-dose Ticagrelor vs. Clopidogrel in Stable Patients Undergoing Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PHASE4)
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:
- Clopidogrel loading CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Clopidogrel loading updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Azienda Policlinico Umberto I portfolio CI