Omeprazole's effect on clopidogrel

Omeprazole's effect on clopidogrel

The FDA has issued a warning regarding the combination of clopidogrel (Plavix^®) with omeprazole (Prilosec^®) citing new data that suggest that the combination reduces clopidogrel's effectiveness by about half. Studies reported in 2009 suggested that omeprazole may block clopidogrel's conversion to its active metabolite via CYP2C19, an enzyme that is inhibited by omeprazole. New studies requested by the FDA from the manufacturers confirm a significant interaction between the two drugs, which can significantly hinder clopidogrel's ability to prevent platelet aggregation in patients at risk for heart disease. Omeprazole and clopidogrel are commonly prescribed together to prevent GI bleeding. At this time it is unclear whether this interaction extends to other proton pump inhibitors, although physicians are encouraged to avoid a combination of clopidogrel with esomeprazole (Nexium^®, cimetidine (Tagamet^®), and other drugs known to inhibit CYP2C19. The FDA is recommending that patients who need GI protection in conjunction with clopidogrel may safely use ranitidine (Zantac^®), famotidine (Pepcid^®), nizatidine (Axid^®), or oral antacids.