From the FDA Drug Label
Effect of food Clopidogrel can be administered with or without food In a study in healthy male subjects when clopidogrel 75 mg per day was given with a standard breakfast, mean inhibition of ADP-induced platelet aggregation was reduced by less than 9%. The active metabolite AUC 0-24was unchanged in the presence of food, while there was a 57% decrease in active metabolite C max Similar results were observed when a clopidogrel 300 mg loading dose was administered with a high-fat breakfast.
Yes, Clopidogrel (Plavix) can be taken with food. The presence of food does not significantly affect the inhibition of ADP-induced platelet aggregation, with a reduction of less than 9% observed in a study with a standard breakfast 1.
From the Research
Yes, you can take Plavix (clopidogrel) with or without food, as taking it with food does not significantly affect how well the medication works in your body. Plavix is typically prescribed as a 75 mg tablet taken once daily, and consistency in taking it at the same time each day is more important than whether you take it with meals. Some people find that taking Plavix with food helps reduce minor stomach discomfort that can occasionally occur with this medication.
Important Considerations
- Plavix works by preventing platelets in your blood from sticking together to form clots, which is important for preventing heart attacks and strokes in at-risk patients.
- If you're starting Plavix for the first time, your doctor might prescribe a higher loading dose (300-600 mg) followed by the standard daily dose.
- It's essential to take Plavix exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and not stop taking it without consulting your doctor first, as sudden discontinuation can increase your risk of cardiovascular events 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Gastrointestinal Risks
- There is a risk of gastrointestinal bleeding associated with the use of Plavix, especially when combined with aspirin or in patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease 5, 6.
- Patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery may be at higher risk of bleeding complications when taking Plavix 5.
- Co-treatment with a proton pump inhibitor, such as omeprazole, may be indicated in high-risk patients to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding 5.
Key Takeaways
- Take Plavix as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Be aware of the potential gastrointestinal risks and discuss them with your doctor.
- Do not stop taking Plavix without consulting your doctor first.