General Drug Information and Indications

Antiplatelet agent for prevention of thromboembolic disease in cats (aortic thromboembolism) and dogs; ADP receptor antagonist. Thienopyridine antiplatelet agent (clopidogrel bisulfate). Mechanism: prodrug — hepatically converted to active thiol metabolite that irreversibly binds P2Y12 ADP receptors on platelet surface → inhibits ADP-induced platelet aggregation and thrombus formation for the platelet's lifespan (~7–10 days). Used in cats for ATE prevention. Key information Antiplatelet agent — increased bleeding risk. Do not discontinue abruptly before procedures. Monitor for GI bleeding. Store at room temperature. Prodrug — activated by CYP2C19 (variable activity in some species).

How to Give this Medication

Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. or without. Tablets may be crushed carefully (wear gloves). Administer once daily at consistent time. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Never give a double dose.

Side Effects

Bleeding: increased surgical/traumatic hemorrhage risk. GI: vomiting, anorexia. Neutropenia, thrombocytopenia (rare). Hepatotoxicity (rare). Discontinue 5–7 days before elective surgery.

Precautions

For animals Discontinue 5–7 days before elective surgery (irreversible platelet inhibition). Monitor for bleeding. Drug interaction: omeprazole may reduce antiplatelet effect (CYP2C19 competition). Use with caution in pregnant animals. Not approved for use in food-producing animals. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Antiplatelet — keep out of reach of children (dangerous if ingested — bleeding risk). Store securely. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Clopidogrel overdose increases bleeding risk. Monitor for unusual bleeding, pale gums. Supportive care as needed.

Clopidogrel Tab dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
CLOPIDOGREL TAB 75MG75MGTablet—Commercial
CLOPIDOGREL TAB 75MG75 MGTablet1Commercial
CLOPIDOGREL TAB 75MG (Apotex)75 MGTablet1Commercial
CLOPIDOGREL TAB 75MG (Dr Reddys)75 MGTablet1Commercial
CLOPIDOGREL TAB 75MG - 30 CT75 MGTablet—Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)