CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Julie Hamilton-Elliott,
Medication: Clopidogrel
Medication: Clopidogrel
Your cat has been prescribed the active ingredient clopidogrel to prevent thrombus (blood clot) formation.
Key points:
• Antiplatelet and anticoagulant.
• Reduces the risk of thrombus formation.
• Do not use in cats with bleeding disorders or gastrointestinal ulceration.
• Dosage: once daily.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Clopidogrel (clo-pid-o-grel).
Brand name
- Plavix® (Europe & UK, US).
Class of drug
- Antiplatelet.
- Anticoagulant.
Storage
- No special storage requirements if in aluminium blisters.
- Loose tablets should be stored in a tight, light resistant container.
Why has my cat been prescribed clopidogrel?
Your veterinarian has prescribed clopidogrel to reduce the risk the formation of a thrombus (blood clot) if your cat has advanced cardiac disease, has a pre-existing thrombus or has had a previous thromboembolism.
Clopidogrel binds to, and inhibits, the adenosine diphosphate ADP (P2Y12) receptor on platelets, thereby inhibiting platelet aggregation.
Recent studies have suggested that clopidogrel is superior to aspirin in prevention of recurrent thromboembolic episodes secondary to cardiac disease.
How is the medication given?
Clopidogrel is given orally, as a tablet. Cats often find the tablets bitter-tasting so may be given coated with a favorite food or placed in a gel capsule.
Do not use if your cat suffers from bleeding disorders or gastrointestinal ulceration.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Clopidogrel is well-tolerated in cats.
Drug interactions
Clopidogrel should not be combined with combined with aspirin or anticoagulants as this increases the risk of bleeding.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Clopidogrel should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. If your cat is due to have surgery, administration should be ceased approximately 7 days prior to being admitted to the hospital.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused clopidogrel safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save clopidogrel for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period. If an overdose has been given, contact your veterinary practice immediately.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Clopidogrel should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for:
- Do not give to other pets in the household.
- Do not use in cats with bleeding disorders or gastrointestinal ulcers.
- Do not use in cats with kidney or liver impairment.
- If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on clopidogrel?
While on clopidogrel, your cat will have their blood coagulation parameters monitored.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on clopidogrel can be found on the package insert.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your cat’s medication.
