Effient (Prasugrel) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Effient (prasugrel) Indications

Effient, generic name of prasugrel, is used to prevent blood clots in patients who have had a myocardial infarction (heart attack), unstable angina (chest pain), or a procedure to open a blocked artery, such as angioplasty or stenting.

Prasugrel is an antiplatelet agent that blocks a specific receptor that prevents the platelets from sticking together and forming clots.

Prasugrel should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

Effient (prasugrel) Uses and Dosage

Always take prasugrel exactly as instructed by the prescriber. Prasugrel is taken by mouth with a glass of water once daily at the same time with or without food. Prasugrel should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or split.

Taking the exact dose as prescribed is highly important. Taking too much prasugrel can increase the risk of bleeding, while taking too little may not be effective in preventing blood clots. The usual recommended starting dose for adults is a “loading dose” of 60 mg, followed by a maintenance dose of 10 mg once a day.

Effient (prasugrel) Side Effects

Common side effects of prasugrel may include:

• Bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or unusual bruising)
• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Stomach upset
• Diarrhea

Prasugrel can increase the risk of bleeding, which can sometimes be serious or even life-threatening. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Severe bleeding that does not want to stop
• Blood in the urine or stool
• Coughing up blood
• Sudden severe headache or weakness on one side of the body

In rare cases, prasugrel may also cause an allergic reaction. Dial emergency help immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as:

• Itching
• Hives or skin rash
• Trouble breathing
• Chest tightness
• Swelling of the face and throat

Effient (prasugrel) Cautions

Prasugrel should generally be avoided in people who have a history of bleeding or who are at high risk of bleeding, including those with:

• Active bleeding, such as a bleeding ulcer or recent hemorrhagic stroke
• Severe liver disease
• A history of bleeding in the brain leading to transient ischemic attack or stroke

Prasugrel has the potential to interact with other medications, supplements, and substances, thereby impacting its safety and efficacy. Therefore, please disclose your complete medication history to your healthcare provider prior to initiating therapy. Some medications that may interact with prasugrel include:

• Blood thinners (aspirin, heparin)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Certain antidepressants (fluoxetine, fluvoxamine)
• Tipranavir

If you are scheduled for surgery or dental procedures, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking prasugrel. They may need to adjust your dose or schedule the procedure for a time when you are done with the medication.

The safety of prasugrel during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. If you are pregnant or currently nursing, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before initiating treatment with this antiplatelet.

Effient (prasugrel) Form and Strength

This medication is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Effient tablet
  • 10 mg
• Prasugrel tablet
  • 5 mg
  • 10 mg

FAQ

Is Plavix and Effient the same?

While both medications are used for similar purposes, there are some differences in their mechanisms of action, effectiveness, and side effect profiles.

How long do you need to be on Effient after stents?

Generally, patients who receive drug-eluting stents are prescribed with antiplatelet therapy for a period of at least 12 months after stent placement.

Resources

1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/022307s002lbl.pdf
2. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-152682/effient-oral/details
3. https://www.drugs.com/effient.html
4. https://www.rxlist.com/effient-drug.htm#indications