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08:04
Analyzing Platelet Subpopulations by Multi-color Flow Cytometry
Published on: June 10, 2025
Hematologic adverse effects of clopidogrel.
Saravanan Balamuthusamy1, Rohit Arora
1Department of Medicine, Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University, Chicago, IL 60064, USA. svijay_bala@yahoo.com
American Journal of Therapeutics
|February 17, 2007
Summary
Clopidogrel, a common antiplatelet drug, can cause rare but serious hematologic issues like thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpura. Close patient monitoring is crucial for early detection and life-saving treatment of these adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Clopidogrel is a widely used antiplatelet medication for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
- Hematologic complications are a significant concern with antiplatelet therapies.
- Clopidogrel is generally considered safer than ticlopidine regarding hematologic adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize reported hematologic adverse effects of clopidogrel.
- To highlight the manifestations and management strategies for these rare complications.
- To emphasize the importance of monitoring patients on clopidogrel therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature search conducted using Medline, Pubmed, and EMBASE databases.
- Inclusion of studies reporting hematologic adverse effects of clopidogrel.
- Focus on manifestations and management of identified adverse events.
Main Results:
- Thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpura (TTP) is the most frequent hematologic adverse effect.
- Other rare hematologic adverse effects include neutropenia, acquired hemophilia, and isolated thrombocytopenia.
- TTP can occur with hemolytic uremic syndrome.
- Monitoring is especially important in the first 2-3 months of therapy.
Conclusions:
- Clopidogrel, while safer than ticlopidine, can cause serious hematologic adverse effects.
- Early recognition and prompt management of these effects are critical for patient outcomes.
- Vigilant monitoring of patients on clopidogrel is essential.
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