Plavix clopidogrel regulatory update

The U.K.'s NICE issued a final appraisal determination (FAD) recommending wider use of clopidogrel due to the availability of cheaper generic versions of the antiplatelet drug in the U.K. The agency recommends use of the adenosine diphosphate (ADP) receptor antagonist to prevent occlusive vascular events in patients who have had an ischemic stroke or have peripheral arterial disease or multivascular disease, or patients who have had a myocardial infarction (MI) if aspirin is contraindicated or not tolerated. The appraisal, which is in line with an August preliminary appraisal, also recommends the use of Aggrenox/Asasantin Retard, a modified-release dipyridamole with aspirin, to prevent occlusive vascular events in patients who have had a transient ischemic attack or an ischemic stroke only if clopidogrel is contraindicated or not tolerated (see BioCentury, Aug. 9).

Persantin Retard, modified-release dipyridamole alone, is recommended to prevent occlusive vascular events in patients who have had an ischemic stroke only if aspirin and clopidogrel are contraindicated or not tolerated, and in patients who have had a transient ischemic attack if aspirin is contraindicated or not tolerated. ...