Small molecule
PubChem CID 60606
Clopidogrel
Plavix
- Mechanism of action
- P2Y12 receptor antagonist
- In plain language
- Stops platelets from sticking together by permanently blocking the receptor that tells them to clump, so blood flows more freely through narrowed or injured arteries.
- How it works
- Clopidogrel is a prodrug that requires hepatic biotransformation, principally via CYP2C19, into an active thiol metabolite. This active metabolite irreversibly binds the P2Y12 class of ADP receptors on the platelet surface, blocking ADP-mediated activation of the GPIIb/IIIa complex and the downstream amplification of platelet aggregation. Because the binding is covalent and irreversible, the antiplatelet effect persists for the lifespan of the affected platelets (approximately 7-10 days), with measurable inhibition of aggregation appearing around 2 hours after an oral dose. This sustained suppression of platelet-driven clot formation reduces the risk of thrombotic events in atherosclerotic and post-MI/stroke settings.
- Therapeutic applications
- Indicated to reduce the rate of myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke in patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome and ST-elevation myocardial infarction, typically in combination with aspirin, as well as in patients with recently diagnosed MI, recent stroke, or established peripheral arterial disease.
- Class
- Small molecule
- Therapeutic area
- Antiplatelet
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