Indications
Effient (active ingredient: prasugrel) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS): Effient is used for the reduction of thrombotic cardiovascular events, including stent thrombosis, in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who are managed with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), including patients with unstable angina or non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) when managed with primary or delayed PCI.
Effient belongs to a class of drugs known as platelet inhibitors or antiplatelet agents, specifically thienopyridine derivatives, which work by irreversibly blocking the P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate (ADP) receptor on platelets, thereby inhibiting platelet aggregation and reducing the risk of thrombotic events in patients with ACS.
Uses and Dosage
Effient is available as a tablet and is taken by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor. Usually, it is taken once a day, but your doctor may direct you to take it with low-dose aspirin (usually 81-162 milligrams a day). Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and do not take more than the recommended dose.
The typical dosing for prasugrel is 10 mg by mouth once daily. For patients who weigh less than 60 kg, a lower dose of 5 mg once daily is recommended. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and do not take more than the recommended dose.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Prasugrel:
- Back pain
- Bleeding of any kind
- Cough
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
Serious Side Effects of Prasugrel:
- Atrial fibrillation
- Bruising
- Chest pain unrelated to the heart
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Low white blood cell count
- Pain in the legs or arms
- Rash
- Slow heart rate
- Swelling in the legs or arms
Form and Strength
Effient (Prasugrel) is available in the following forms and strength:
Effient: Tablet
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Prasugrel: Tablet
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Caution
- Effient (prasugrel) is an antiplatelet medication used to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people who have had a stent placed in the heart. It works by preventing platelets from clumping together and forming a blood clot. An unwanted blood clot can occur with certain heart or blood vessel conditions, take Effient as prescribed to reduce the risk of these complications.
- Take prasugrel (Effient) every day as prescribed by your doctor, as missing a dose, or stopping it suddenly can cause clots to form in your stent, which increases your risk for a heart attack. Speak to your doctor about any potential risks or side effects associated with taking Effient.
- People who are allergic to other antiplatelet medications may also be allergic to prasugrel. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction after taking prasugrel (Effient), such as a rash or hives, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor right away. Seek medical help immediately if you experience swelling in your face, throat, or tongue.
- Do not take Effient if you have any active bleeding such as a stomach ulcer or bleeding in the brain, if you have ever had a stroke or "mini stroke", or if you are scheduled to have surgery, especially heart bypass surgery. Taking this medication in these cases could increase the risk of serious, life-threatening bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do you need to be on prasugrel (Effient) after a stent?
After getting a stent in the heart, most people need to take prasugrel for at least 12 months. Depending on your other medical problems, you may need to take prasugrel for a shorter or longer time. Do not stop taking prasugrel unless your healthcare provider has told you to do so.
Can you just stop taking prasugrel (Effient)?
Do not stop taking prasugrel unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so. Stopping this medication too soon can raise your risk of having another heart attack, especially if the stent in your heart is new. Most people need to take Effient for at least 12 months before they can try to come off it.
How long does prasugrel stay in your system?
The blood-thinning effect of prasugrel (Effient) can last up to 7 days after your last dose. Keep this in mind if you are going to have surgery or any kind of procedure that might cause bleeding.
Is it safe to take Effient while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do not take Effient while pregnant or breastfeeding due to the risk of serious side effects, including increased risk of bleeding. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about other medications that may be safer for you to take.
How long does it take for Effient to start working?
Effient typically begins to take effect within 30 minutes to 4 hours after taking a 60-mg loading dose. However, it may take up to 5 days for the full effect of the medication to be seen. It is important to take Effient as prescribed by your doctor and not to stop taking it before they recommend.
How should I store Effient?
Effient should be stored at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). Keep and dispense only in the original container, and keep the container closed when not in use. Do not store Effient in moist or damp conditions, and do not expose to high temperatures or direct sunlight.
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