Side effects of clopidogrel

These common side effects of clopidogrel happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Clopidogrel can cause bleeding problems such as nosebleeds, bruising more easily, heavier periods or bleeding that takes longer to stop.

Be careful when doing activities that might cause an injury or a cut. Always wear a helmet when cycling. Wear protective gloves when you use sharp objects like scissors, knives, and gardening tools. Use an electric razor instead of wet shaving. Speak to a dentist for advice on how to clean your teeth.

See a doctor if you're worried about any bleeding.

Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Speak to a pharmacist if you have signs of dehydration, such as peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take the combined contraceptive pill or progestogen-only pill and you have severe, watery diarrhoea, or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Try to rest and relax. It can help to eat and drink slowly and have smaller and more frequent meals. Putting a heat pad or covered hot water bottle on your stomach may also help.

If you're in a lot of pain or it does not get better, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Take clopidogrel a few minutes before or after a meal.

If the indigestion does not go away, it could be a sign that you have a stomach ulcer. Talk to your doctor, as they may prescribe something to protect your stomach or switch you to a different medicine.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.