Definition
Clopidogrel is a drug from the antiplatelet family (thrombocyte aggregation inhibitors). The drug thus influences blood clotting, similar to aspirin. It is believed to prevent the blood platelets (thrombocytes) from binding together and forming clots.
Indications
Clopidogrel is used in various clinical pictures where there is an increased risk of blood clots (thrombi) forming in the blood. These clots are potentially dangerous because they can get stuck in blood vessels and thus cause a circulatory disorder. As a result of the circulatory disorder, so-called atherothrombotic events can occur, which can lead to a stroke or heart attack.
The following areas of application can be derived from this: Clopidogrel is used to prevent blood clots if the patient suffers from calcified arteries (arteriosclerosis), has suffered a heart attack or stroke or suffers from peripheral arterial occlusive disease (pAVK). Clopidogrel is also used when the patient has experienced an episode of severe chest pain as part of “unstable angina pectoris” or a heart attack. Clopidogrel is also prescribed when patients have had a stent inserted to keep the narrowed artery open. Clopidogrel is often given in combination with ASA (acetylsalicylic acid).
Effect/Active substance
The active ingredient clopidogrel is initially not active in the body. Only when clopidogrel has been converted in the liver can it develop its function. In order to understand the effect of clopidogrel, one must first understand the function of the blood platelets.
Platelets are used in the body to seal leaks or injuries. This is achieved by the platelets, once activated, aggregating to seal the injury in the vessel. If a vascular injury occurs, messenger substances are released which attract and activate the platelets.
The messenger ADP (adenosine diphosphate), among other things, is responsible for the activation of the blood platelets and ensures that the platelets are stored together. The drug clopidogrel prevents ADP from attaching to the platelets and thus prevents the platelets from agglutinating. This suppresses blood clotting.
Side effects
Common side effects of clopidogrel affect the gastrointestinal tract. It can cause abdominal pain, heartburn and indigestion. Since the drug increases the risk of unwanted bleeding, patients with existing intestinal and/or gastric ulcers must be carefully monitored by their doctor.
Nausea and vomiting may also occur. Constipation and flatulence may also be observed. Clopidogrel may also cause neurological symptoms.
Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, dizziness and discomfort such as tingling and numbness may occur. A doctor should be consulted, especially if sensations are present. Dizziness and loss of balance are also rare.
Rarely rashes and itching, which are partly due to an allergy to the medication, are observed. Due to the intended, anticoagulant effect of the drug, the bleeding time is prolonged in case of injury or cut. Bleeding of all kinds can also occur.
Nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and rarely dangerous cerebral hemorrhages may occur. Taking blood-thinning medication also makes itself felt if you bump into each other. This means that bruises are more likely to occur when taking clopidogrel.
In addition, clopidogrel can cause changes in the blood count, such as a lack of platelets or white blood cells. These changes are noticeable during regular blood tests during therapy with clopidogrel. In this case, the treating doctor will adjust the therapy.
Hair loss is a rare side effect of clopidogrel. In the case of newly occurring hair loss and simultaneous intake of clopidogrel, a consultation and subsequent examination by the doctor can determine whether the hair loss is caused by the active substance or whether there is another organic cause. Clopidogrel may cause tiredness or dizziness.
Why fatigue occurs is not always clear. In any case, the changes in the blood count caused by clopidogrel may be responsible for the fatigue. But similar to hair loss, many different causes of fatigue can be possible.
