Generic forms of Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate), a blood thinner which helps reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, were approved by the FDA on Thursday, May 17.
The drug decreases the likelihood of clumping and clotting in blood platelets.
"For people who must manage chronic health conditions, having effective and affordable treatment options is important," said Keith Webber, Ph.D., deputy director of the Office of Pharmaceutical Science in the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "The generic products approved today will expand those options for patients."
Clopidogrel does not work in all patients and comes with several health risks including susceptibility to bruising, bleeding and difficulty in stopping spontaneous blood loss.
Apotex Corporation, Aurobindo Pharma, Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Roxane Laboratories, Sun Pharma, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and Torrent Pharmaceuticals have received approval for releasing 75 mg doses of clopidogrel.
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