Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate) has been approved for the reduction of atherosclerotic events (myocardial infaraction, stroke, vascular deaths) in patients with atherosclerosis documented by recent myocardial infarctions, recent stroke, or established peripheral arterial disease. Plavix keeps blood platelets slippery and discourages formation of clots, thereby improving blood flow to your heart, brain, and body.

How much Plavix is taken in each dose depends on the reasons the drug is being used. Physicians recommend a dose of 75 mg per day in people who have had a recent stroke or heart attack or have known arterial disease.

For people who have acute coronary syndrome, an initial dose of 300 mg of Plavix is given. Once this loading dose has been given, patients are advised to take 75 mg of Plavix daily in combination with aspirin. If the drug is being used to prevent closure of a coronary artery bypass graft in someone with an allergy to aspirin, a loading dose of 300 mg is given six hours after the procedure. The maintenance dose is 50 mg to 100 mg per day.