Clopidogrel: NHS warns of four common side effects

The NHS says clopidogrel can cause four common side effects that affect more than one in 100 people, and it reports that serious side effects are rare (fewer than one in 1,000).

The NHS has updated guidance about clopidogrel, an antiplatelet medicine prescribed to reduce the risk of blood clots, heart attack and stroke. The guidance notes that clopidogrel can cause side effects, and classifies four of them as "common." The NHS also reports that serious side effects are uncommon. The information is presented alongside notes on who may not be suitable for the drug and how other medicines can interact with it. Key points: - Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet drug used to reduce the risk of blood clots and related cardiovascular events. - The NHS lists four side effects as "common," affecting more than one in 100 people, without listing them in this article. - Serious side effects are reported as rare, occurring in fewer than one in 1,000 people. - The NHS notes clopidogrel is not suitable for some people and that other medicines can affect how it works; a full list is in the patient leaflet. Summary: The NHS guidance restates known rates for common and rare side effects and highlights interactions and suitability concerns. Undetermined at this time.