Antiplatelet therapy is one of the most important aspects in the management of patients with atherothrombotic diseases. Currently, acetylsalicylic acid and P2Y₁₂ receptor blockers (clopidogrel, ticagrelor and prasugrel) are used as antiplatelet drugs. Recently, the results of several studies and meta-analyses have been published. According to these data, clopidogrel is characterized by comparable efficacy and better safety profile compared to other P2Y₁₂ blockers. In addition, de-escalation algorithms for antiplatelet therapy with rejection of ticagrelor/prasugrel in favor of clopidogrel are actively studied. The available data similarly indicate that this approach ensures adequate prevention of ischemic complications and reduces the risk of bleeding. Thus, more favorable general prognostic effect is expected. An important advantage of clopidogrel is long-standing experience of clinical application and an extensive evidence base confirming effectiveness and safety of this drug. As a result, clopidogrel is included into the leading international guidelines. These documents emphasize that clopidogrel is a first-line antiplatelet drug for dual and triple antithrombotic therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation and previous thrombolysis. In addition, clopidogrel is effective for symptomatic atherosclerosis of the carotid and lower limb arteries, especially in patients after previous stenting of these vessels.