Clopidogrel

( Plavix )

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jul 25, 2022

Common Questions


Common Questions about clopidogrel (Plavix)


Do you have to take clopidogrel for life?

You may be able to stop clopidogrel around 12 months after a myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke. However, many people require lifelong treatment with clopidogrel. Your doctor may ask you to continue taking this medicine unless there are problems with bleeding. Don’t stop taking clopidogrel (Plavix) without talking to your doctor first, even if you feel well, because this could increase your risk of harmful blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. 



Can I drink coffee with clopidogrel?

Coffee can affect blood clotting, so some health experts advise caution while taking medications that slow blood clotting. Ask your doctor whether it is okay to drink coffee while you are on clopidogrel.



Can you still have a heart attack or stroke while taking clopidogrel?

Clopidogrel prevents blood clotting and keeps blood vessels open. It thereby reduces your risk of heart attack and stroke. However, it is not foolproof, and you can still have these cardiovascular events while on the medication. 



Can you take aspirin and clopidogrel together?

Do not take aspirin and clopidogrel together unless advised by your doctor. Taking these medications together can increase your risk of bleeding. To treat minor aches and pains or fever with an over-the-counter medication, it is okay to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) and clopidogrel together 



How long does clopidogrel stay in your system?

Clopidogrel can stay in your body for up to 5 days after taking an oral tablet. You need to keep this in mind if you’re having surgery, including dental surgery. Before any surgery, be sure to tell your doctors you are on clopidogrel. They may ask you to temporarily stop taking clopidogrel for a few days 



What is the price of clopidogrel without insurance?

Without insurance, clopidogrel can be as high as $157.30, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $10.96 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase the brand-name version of clopidogrel like Plavix. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not. 



What is the price of clopidogrel with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on clopidogrel—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins. You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for clopidogrel. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.