Key takeaways
Clopidogrel (Plavix) and prasugrel (Effient) are both P2Y12 inhibitors used to prevent heart attacks and strokes, but they have some key differences. Clopidogrel is used for people with a history of heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease, while prasugrel is specifically for those who have had a stent placed after a heart attack. Clopidogrel is typically taken at a dose of 75 mg once daily, whereas prasugrel is taken at 10 mg once daily, with a lower dose for those under 132 lbs. Prasugrel has a higher risk of bleeding compared to clopidogrel and is not recommended for people aged 75 and older or those with a history of stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). Both medications are available as lower-cost generics and are taken orally once a day. While clopidogrel can interact with certain medications like omeprazole and esomeprazole, prasugrel has fewer specific drug interactions but should be avoided with alcohol due to increased bleeding risk.
