Abstract
Platelet aggregation is triggered by the activation of GPIIb/IIIa and binding of fibrinogen, which are induced by the ADP released from damaged vessels and red blood cells. Clopidogrel sulfate (SR25990C, clopidogrel) is an oral antiplatelet agent containing a thienopyridine ring within its structure, and its antiplatelet effect is based on its inhibitory action towards ADP receptor. The present double-blind controlled clinical pharmacology study was performed on 124 Japanese patients with cerebral infarction, who were given 10, 37.5, or 75mg/day of clopidogrel for 2 weeks in order to evaluate the relationship between dose of clopidogrel and inhibition of platelet aggregation. In addition, ticlopidine (200 mg/day) was administered to a positive control group. The percent inhibition of platelet aggregation with ticlopidine was 34.9%, and that with 10, 37.5, and 75 mg/day of clopidogrel was 14.0, 26.6, and 39.8%, respectively. On the basis of these results, the recommended clinical dose of clopidogrel for Japanese patients with cerebral infarction was concluded to be 75mg/day.
