Plavix (clopidogrel) is a medication prescribed for the prevention ofheart attack and stroke prevention. Plavix reduces the rate of myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke in patients who have experienced unstableanginaor a previous heart attack. Plavix may also be prescribed to patients with established peripheral arterial disease. Plavix works by attaching to a receptor on the surface of platelet cells called P2Y12. Normally, platelets in the bloodstream aggregate to form clots, and these clots heal and seal injuries. In patients with cardiovascular disease (peripheral arterial disease, unstable angina, or previous heart attack), clots may form at a higher rate than normal, increasing the risk of another cardiac event. By binding to platelets, Plavix stops them from aggregating and slows clot formation.