Clopidogrel (Plavix) is prescribed to people with heart disease-for example, those who have suffered a heart attack or stroke, or who have unstable angina (chest pain) or a circulatory problem such as peripheral artery disease (in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs). It also may be given to patients with artificial heart valves and those undergoing stent placement. Its in a class of medications called antiplatelet drugs, and helps to prevent the blood clots that can cause heart attacks and stroke. Because it prevents blood cells from clumping together it can raise the risk of bleeding in some people.
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