Update in Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Receptor Antagonist Clopidogrel: Use in Cerebrovascular Accidents

Acute ischemic stroke is the most common manifestation of cerebrovascular disease, which ranks the first to make an adult become bedridden and/or out of productive life. Antiplatelet therapy has long been demonstrated to alleviate the risks of recurrent untoward events, especially in the setting of secondary prevention. In the last decade it has been proved that dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) appears to be more efficacious than monotherapy with aspirin. Clopidogrel (CLP) -an irreversible inhibitor of the platelet P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate receptor- is licensed in adults for the prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients suffering from MI, ischemic stroke (from 7 days to 6 months) or peripheral arterial disease. The recommended dose is 75 mg as a single daily dose, taken with or without food. This review is designed to encompass use of the agent comprehensively and delineates a frame in which clinicians can view as a guide in their routine clinical practice.