What is the brand name for Clopidogrel?
The brand name for Clopidogrel is Plavix.
PTCB TOP 200 · #41
Clopidogrel
Plavix
Clopidogrel is the generic name for the brand-name drug Plavix. It is an antiplatelet (p2y12 inhibitor) used to treat stroke/MI prevention. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Clopidogrel ranks #41 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Clopidogrel |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Plavix |
| Drug class | Antiplatelet (P2Y12 inhibitor) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | stroke/MI prevention |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Clopidogrel used for?
• Reduce risk of heart attack and stroke in patients with recent MI, recent stroke, or established peripheral arterial disease. • Acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina/NSTEMI or STEMI) to reduce cardiovascular events, usually with aspirin.
What drug class is Clopidogrel?
Clopidogrel is an Antiplatelet (P2Y12 inhibitor) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Clopidogrel
- arrow_rightBleeding (e.g., bruising, nosebleed)
- arrow_rightGI upset/diarrhea
- arrow_rightRash/pruritus
Major interactions
- arrow_rightStrong CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, esomeprazole) may reduce activation/effectiveness
- arrow_rightAnticoagulants, antiplatelets, NSAIDs ↑ bleeding risk
- arrow_rightSSRIs/SNRIs may ↑ bleeding risk when combined
Is Clopidogrel a controlled substance?
No. Clopidogrel is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
Reduced effectiveness in patients who are CYP2C19 poor metabolizers (and with strong CYP2C19 inhibitors); consider alternative treatment/testing.
How to remember Clopidogrel (PTCE mnemonic)
PLA-vix makes PLAtelets less sticky — clopido-GREL blocks P2Y12. Post-stent with aspirin; CYP2C19 poor metabolizers = ↓effect; bleed risk.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Clopidogrel (Plavix) is an antiplatelet, not an anticoagulant — a distinction the exam tests; it's often paired with aspirin ('dual antiplatelet').
Clopidogrel FAQ
What is Clopidogrel used for?
Clopidogrel is used to treat stroke/MI prevention. • Reduce risk of heart attack and stroke in patients with recent MI, recent stroke, or established peripheral arterial disease. • Acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina/NSTEMI or STEMI) to reduce cardiovascular events, usually with aspirin.
What drug class is Clopidogrel?
Clopidogrel is an Antiplatelet (P2Y12 inhibitor) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Clopidogrel a controlled substance?
No. Clopidogrel is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Study guides that cover Clopidogrel
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
e911_emergencyHigh-alert medications listthe meds where an error does the most harm
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
Failed the PTCB? The comeback planwhat to do if the first attempt fails
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
Failed the PTCB? The comeback planwhat to do if the first attempt failsSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Clopidogrel the way the PTCE asks it
RxReflex turns the Top 200 drugs into fast flashcard rounds, a guided Learn path, pharmacy math, and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
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Last reviewed August 7, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).