What is the mechanism of action of clopidogrel
Clopidogrel is a platelet inhibitors that irreversible antagonists ADP receptors (P2Y12) on platelets, interfering with primary and secondary platelet aggregation
- clopidogrel is a prodrug and must be hepatically metabolized to form an active, highly unstable thiol compound, commonly referred to as clopidogrel active metabolite
Dose is 18.75 mg, PO, once daily
- for very small cats, the dose may need to be reduced to 10 mg/dose
Side effects:
- occasional vomiting, diarrhoea and anorexia which may be ameliorated by giving food concurrently
- nonregenerative anemia has been reported in some cats on long-term therapy
A subset of cats lacks the ability to convert clopidogrel into the metabolically active compounds, rendering the drug ineffective
