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Clopidogrel

Prescription
Antiplatelet agent (ADP receptor inhibitor)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Cat, Dog
Brands
3 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Irreversibly inhibits the P2Y12 ADP receptor on platelet surface, preventing ADP-mediated activation and aggregation of platelets for the lifespan of the platelet

At a glance

Class
Antiplatelet agent (ADP receptor inhibitor)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Below 25°C

Dosing

🐈

Cat

Prevention of arterial thromboembolism (ATE) in cardiomyopathy
Dose
18.75–75 mg/cat
Route
PO
Frequency
SID
Max dose
75 mg
Duration: Long-term / lifelong
🐕

Dog

Prevention of thromboembolism, hypercoagulable states
Dose
1–4 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
SID
Max dose
75 mg
Duration: Long-term

Formulations

💊

Tablet — 1

Strength
75mg
Available in India

Storage

Below 25°C

Safety

Absolute contraindications — do not use

  • Active pathological bleeding

Use with caution

  • Upcoming surgery (within 5–7 days)
    Increased bleeding risk with concurrent antiplatelet/anticoagulant agents

Adverse effects

Common
GI upset
Vomiting
Serious
Bleeding/hemorrhage
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (rare)

Monitoring parameters

Platelet function testingSigns of bleedingEchocardiography (cats with cardiomyopathy)

Interactions

Moderate — 2

Meloxicam
moderate
Both inhibit platelet function via different mechanisms (clopidogrel: ADP receptor; NSAID: TXA2). Additive bleeding risk.
Management: Use with caution. Monitor for bleeding signs. Combination sometimes used intentionally in thrombotic disease — requires close monitoring.
Omeprazole
moderate
Omeprazole inhibits CYP2C19, reducing conversion of clopidogrel prodrug to its active metabolite, potentially decreasing antiplatelet efficacy.
Management: Use pantoprazole or famotidine instead of omeprazole when patient requires both gastroprotection and clopidogrel antiplatelet therapy.

Brands

International

Plavix
Sanofi/Bristol-Myers Squibb

India

Clopilet
Sun Pharma
Clopivas
Cipla

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Clopidogrel?
Clopidogrel is a antiplatelet agent (adp receptor inhibitor) used in pets. Irreversibly inhibits the P2Y12 ADP receptor on platelet surface, preventing ADP-mediated activation and aggregation of platelets for the lifespan of the platelet
›What is Clopidogrel used for in pets?
Clopidogrel is used in veterinary medicine for: Prevention of arterial thromboembolism (ATE) in cardiomyopathy; Prevention of thromboembolism, hypercoagulable states.
›What is the Clopidogrel dose for cats?
For cats, Clopidogrel is typically dosed as follows — Prevention of arterial thromboembolism (ATE) in cardiomyopathy: 18.75–75 mg/cat PO SID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Clopidogrel dose for dogs?
For dogs, Clopidogrel is typically dosed as follows — Prevention of thromboembolism, hypercoagulable states: 1–4 mg/kg PO SID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Clopidogrel?
Common: GI upset, Vomiting. Serious (call your vet immediately): Bleeding/hemorrhage, Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (rare).
›Does Clopidogrel need a prescription?
Yes. Clopidogrel is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Clopidogrel not be used?
Do not use Clopidogrel if: Active pathological bleeding.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →