November 18th, 2009
FDA Weighs In On Combination of Clopidogrel and Omeprazole
Larry Husten, PHD
Despite recent data suggesting no significant effect on outcomes when combining the use of clopidogrel and proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), the issue remains contentious. Today, the FDA updated clopidogrel’s label to warn against its concurrent use with omeprazole. The agency reported that omeprazole can reduce clopidogrel’s effect by nearly half, according to new manufacturer-conducted studies. Concerns were also raised about esomeprazole, a component of omeprazole, although there were no official statements made regarding PPIs other than omeprazole.