Clopidogrel

How does clopidogrel work?

Clopidogrel is one of the so-called platelet aggregation inhibitors. These are drugs that prevent blood platelets (thrombocytes) from clumping together and forming blood clots (thrombi). Blood clots can block the blood vessels and thus impede or even completely interrupt the blood flow. This can lead to serious complications such as heart attack, stroke or pulmonary embolism.

Clopidogrel works by blocking an enzyme in the blood platelets that is responsible for activating a specific receptor. This receptor is necessary for the platelets to adhere to each other. If clopidogrel blocks this receptor, the platelets can no longer aggregate and the risk of blood clots decreases.

When is clopidogrel used in dogs?

Clopidogrel is used in dogs suffering from diseases that are associated with an increased risk of thrombosis. These include, for example

• valvular heart disease
• heart muscle diseases
• Atrial fibrillation
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Immune diseases such as immune thrombocytopenia
• Kidney diseases
• Liver diseases
• Cancer

Clopidogrel is usually administered in combination with other medications, for example aspirin or heparin. The exact dosage and duration of treatment depends on the severity and type of disease and should always be determined by the vet.

What side effects can clopidogrel have?

Like any medication, clopidogrel can also have side effects. The most common and most serious side effect is an increased tendency to bleed. This means that your dog may bleed more easily or that bleeding may last longer. This can lead to anemia (anemia), hematomas (bruising) or internal bleeding. You should therefore look out for the following signs:

• Pale mucous membranes
• weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dark urine
• Black or bloody feces
• Vomiting or coughing up blood
• Nosebleeds
• Bleeding gums
• Prolonged bleeding time after injury or surgery

If you notice one or more of these signs in your dog, you should contact your vet immediately.

Other possible side effects of clopidogrel are:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching or breathing difficulties
• Liver dysfunction

However, these side effects are rare and usually mild. If you are unsure whether your dog is experiencing a side effect, you should also ask your vet for advice.

How do you treat your dog properly with clopidogrel?

If your dog is prescribed clopidogrel, you should follow your vet's instructions exactly. This applies to the dosage as well as the frequency and duration of administration. You should not crush or break the tablets, but give them to your dog whole. If your dog does not take the tablets voluntarily, you can give them to him with some food or a treat.

You should not stop or change the treatment with clopidogrel on your own authority, even if your dog is feeling better. This can lead to a relapse or complications. If you have any questions or concerns, you should always consult your vet.

You should also make sure that your dog is not taking any other medication that could affect the effect of clopidogrel. These include, for example:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen
• Steroids such as prednisone or dexamethasone
• Other platelet aggregation inhibitors such as aspirin or ticlopidine
• Anticoagulants such as warfarin or heparin
• Other medications that can affect blood clotting

If your dog requires any of these medications, you should definitely discuss this with your vet. They can tell you whether the dosage needs to be adjusted or the medication needs to be changed.