Drug interactions
Cangrelor + Clopidogrel
Severity: Major
Cangrelor and Clopidogrel: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Cangrelor binds the P2Y12 receptor reversibly and, if clopidogrel is given during the infusion, blocks access of clopidogrel's active metabolite. The expected antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel is lost.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cangrelor and Clopidogrel can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Cangrelor belongs to Cardiovascular; Clopidogrel belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Competitive occupancy of the P2Y12 receptor by cangrelor prevents binding of clopidogrel's irreversible active metabolite.
What to do
Give clopidogrel only after the cangrelor infusion has been stopped, not during it.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Clopidogrel
Other interactions of Cangrelor
- Cangrelor + Prasugrel Major
- Cangrelor + Warfarin Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cangrelor with Clopidogrel?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cangrelor and Clopidogrel can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Cangrelor binds the P2Y12 receptor reversibly and, if clopidogrel is given during the infusion, blocks access of clopidogrel's active metabolite. The expected antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel is lost.
How serious is the interaction between Cangrelor and Clopidogrel?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Give clopidogrel only after the cangrelor infusion has been stopped, not during it.
What other medicines interact with Clopidogrel?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clopidogrel with, for example, Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir, Abrocitinib, Acetylsalicylic acid. The full list is on the Clopidogrel page.
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