A new blood test for measuring Plavix (clopidogrel) can be taken in less than 15 minutes and gives one simple result.
VerifyNow P2Y12 performs blood tests specifically designed to measure the effects of Plavix on platelets, the blood cells primarily responsible for clotting. Inhibiting the function of platelets is how Plavix exerts its cardioprotective effects.
Plavix is taken by almost 10 million Americans to help prevent a potentially life-threatening heart attack or stroke. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefit of the drug, but they also indicate that from five to 30 percent of patients do not respond adequately to it. Patients who are nonresponsive to Plavix are at much greater risk for a serious cardiovascular event that includes heart attack, stroke and blockage of coronary stents.