FDA Approves Generic Plavix

If you currently take Plavix, your wallet may soon thank you.

The Food and Drug Administration recently approved generic versions of Plavix, a blood-thinning drug that helps reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

The generic version, clopidogrel, is approved to treat those who have suffered recent heart attacks or strokes, or have artery blockages.

“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, in a press release. “The generic products . . . will expand those options for patients.”

According to the FDA, generic drugs approved by the agency are of the same quality and strength as the brand names.