The Effect of Clopidogrel on Coated-Platelets in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization

The Effect of Clopidogrel on Coated-Platelets in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization

This study will explore the effect of clopidogrel on coated-platelets in patients who are given a loading dose before diagnostic catheterization or percutaneous coronary intervention. We hypothesis that clopidogrel will reduce the percentage of platelets that are coated and therefore more hypercoagulable.

Platelet activity will be determined by light transmission aggregometry at baseline, after a 300 mg dose of clopidogrel and after the catheterization and/or angioplasty procedure. The change in the percentage of platelets that are coated platelets will be determined.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients given clopidogrel loading dose before scheduled catheterization or percutaneous intervention

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acute coronary syndrome
• Unable to tolerate clopidogrel