General Information
Effient (Prasugrel) is used by patients with heart disease such as unstable angina or who had a recent heart attack. This is for those who undergo a certain heart procedure or called angioplasty. This is being used along with aspirin.
Effient helps prevent other serious heart/blood vessel problems like strokes, heart attacks, or blood clots in stents.
How does Effient (Prasugrel) work?
Effient (Prasugrel) works by preventing platelets (a type of blood cell) from collecting and forming clots. In which it may cause a heart attack or stroke.
This medication is a thienopyridine and a prodrug that inhibits ADP receptors. It is by irreversibly acting on the platelets. The active metabolite of this drug prevents the binding of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to its platelet receptor. It also prevents impairing the ADP-mediated activation of the glycoprotein complex.
Why use Effient (Prasugrel)?
Effient (Prasugrel) is in the class of medications called anti-platelet. This ‘anti-platelet effect helps to keep blood flowing smoothly in your body. This comes as a tablet that contains Prasugrel as an active ingredient. Each tablet is available as 5mg or 10mg for oral use. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication.
How to use Effient (Prasugrel)?
Effient (Prasugrel) is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. It is usually taken once a day. You may take it with or without food.
The recommended dosage is based on your condition, weight, and response. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than prescribed.
What are the side-effects of Effient (Prasugrel)?
Common side effects:
- Nosebleeds
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Tired feeling
- Cough nausea
- Rash
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Back pain
- Minor chest pain
- Shortness of breath
Call for medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Swelling of your lips, face, throat, or tongue
Warnings and Precautions
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease. Tell also your doctor if you have any prescription or non-prescription medications (vitamins, herbal products, or nutritional supplements).
- Inform your doctor if are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or a breastfeeding woman while having this treatment.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug especially bleeding.
- Limit alcoholic beverages. Ask your doctor about how much alcohol you may safely drink.
