Key takeaways
Clopidogrel (Plavix) and cilostazol are both medications used to help with blood flow, but they work in different ways and are used for different conditions. Clopidogrel is a P2Y12 inhibitor that prevents platelets from clumping together, which helps lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It's taken once a day and is available in a generic form. Cilostazol, on the other hand, is a PDE-3 inhibitor that not only stops platelets from clumping but also relaxes blood vessels in the legs. It's used to treat intermittent claudication, a condition that causes pain in the legs when walking. Cilostazol must be taken twice a day on an empty stomach and is not safe for people with heart failure. Both medications can increase the risk of bleeding, but cilostazol also has side effects like headaches and diarrhea. Additionally, you should avoid grapefruit products with both medications.
