Clopidogrel bisulfate is a prodrug that is metabolized to the active form, (thiol derivative) that inhibits platelet aggregation by selectively and irreversibly binding to the adenosine diphosphate (ADP) P2Y12 receptor on platelets. This binding prevents activation of the ADP-mediated glycoprotein GPIIb/IIIa complex, which is necessary for platelet aggregation. This action is irreversible for the remainder of the platelet lifespan (7 to 10 days)