Clopidogrel bisulfate

Question 1

What is the trade name for clopidogrel bisulfate?

Answer 1

Plavix

Question 2

What is the generic name for Plavix?

Answer 2

clopidogrel bisulfate

Question 3

Classification - Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate)

Answer 3

inhibitor of ADP-induced platelet aggregation

Question 4

How is Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate) supplied?

Answer 4

75mg tablets

Question 5

Actions (Pharmacodynamics) - Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate)

Answer 5

Inhibits the binding of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to its platelet receptor and the subsequent ADP-mediated activation of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa complex, thereby inhibiting platelet aggregation

Question 6

Indications - Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate)

Answer 6

❑ Acute STEMI/NSTEMI ACS

❑ Substitute for ASA if patient cannot take ASA

Question 7

Dosage - Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate)

Answer 7

Loading dose: 300-600 mg PO
Maintenance dose: of 75 mg PO
Full effects will not develop for several days
AHS MCPs – As directed by VHR physician / protocol; do not repeat dose

Question 8

Contraindications - Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate)

Answer 8

❑ Hypersensitivity 
❑ Active bleeding
❑ Liver impairment
❑ Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
❑ Withhold for 5 days before CABG unless need for revascularization outweighs the risk of significant bleeding

Question 9

Precautions - Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate)

Answer 9

In patients with increased risk of bleeding from trauma; surgery or other pathologic conditions

Question 10

How long are platelets affected by Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate)?

Answer 10

Acts by irreversibly modifying the platelet ADP receptor and so they are affected for their lifespan. (8-12 days)