What is the brand name for Clopidogrel?
The brand name for Clopidogrel is Plavix.
PTCE 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.
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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).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Clopidogrel the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 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).