What is Clopidogrel?
Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet drug. It is prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in people who are at a high risk of these events. Clopidogrel is sold under the brand name Plavix, and is also available in generic form. It works by preventing platelets from clumping together and forming clots.
How to Pronounce Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel is pronounced “clo-pih-dog-rel”. It is important to note that the “clo” syllable is stressed. The “pih” syllable is softer and shorter than the “clo” syllable. The “dog” syllable is also softer and shorter than the “clo” syllable. The “rel” syllable is the shortest and softest of all of the syllables.
Proper Use of Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once a day, with or without food. It is important to take clopidogrel at the same time every day. Do not stop taking clopidogrel unless your doctor tells you to do so. Stopping it suddenly may increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.
Possible Side Effects of Clopidogrel
Common side effects of clopidogrel include: headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, and rash. More serious side effects may include: easy bruising or bleeding, signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat), chest pain, confusion, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Drug Interactions
Clopidogrel can interact with other medications, herbs, and supplements. Before taking clopidogrel, tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications, herbs, and supplements you are taking. Clopidogrel may interact with aspirin, heparin, warfarin, and other antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Clopidogrel and Alcohol
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking clopidogrel. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding and other side effects of clopidogrel. If you do choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
Clopidogrel and Pregnancy
Clopidogrel is classified as a pregnancy category C drug. This means that it is not known if it is safe to take during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking clopidogrel.
Tips for Remembering Clopidogrel
One way to remember how to pronounce clopidogrel is to break it down into syllables. The “clo” syllable is stressed and the other syllables are softer and shorter. Another way to remember how to pronounce clopidogrel is to think of it as “clo-pi-dog-rel.”
Conclusion
Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet drug used to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in people at high risk of these events. It is important to take clopidogrel exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is also important to be aware of potential side effects and drug interactions. Clopidogrel is pronounced “clo-pih-dog-rel” with the “clo” syllable being the stressed syllable.