Effient (Prasugrel)

What is Effient?

Effient (prasugrel) is an oral drug with “anti-platelet” effect which helps blood flow smoothly in our body.

What is Effient used for?

Effient is used in patients who have experienced recent heart attack or unstable angina and who undergo a heart procedure called angioplasty.  Effient also helps prevent other serious heart or blood vessel problems such as strokes, heart attacks, or blood clots in stents.

How does Effient work?

Effient works by blocking platelets from sticking together to form harmful blood clots.

How to use Effient

Effient should be used exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Taking the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed can be harmful.

The dosage of Effient depends on your age, kidney and liver function, medical condition and response to treatment.

Effient is usually taken orally, once daily. It can be taken with or without food, unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor. Doctors sometimes prescribe Effient along with a low-dose aspirin. It is very important to take heed of your doctor’s instructions.

Do not stop taking the medicine unless directed by your doctor.

Effient warnings and precautions

Effient is not prescribed to patients allergic to prasugrel or with active bleeding in body (such as bleeding in the brain due to a head injury, stomach ulcer, or history of stroke including TIA).

Prior to taking the medication inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: severe liver disease; stomach ulcers; bleeding or blood clotting disorder- for example hemophilia. Tell your doctor if you have recently undergone or will undergo a heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft/  CABG).

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to take this medicine only after taking doctor’s permission. Inform your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant during the treatment.

What do I do if I have missed a Effient dose?

If you have missed a Effient dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Effient overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Effient, consult your doctor immediately.

Effient interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Effient include: warfarin, enoxaparin (blood thinners), antidepressants (including SSRIs like fluoxetine and SNRIs like venlafaxine), tipranavir.

Aspirin and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen may increase risk for bleeding if taken along with Effient. These medicines should not be taken unless instructed by your doctor.

Other drugs may also interact with Effient. So, it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before taking Effient.

Do not prescribe to a medicine, without consultation with a physician.

Effient side effects

Side effects from Effient include allergic reactions such as hives, breathing difficulty, swelling and other serious side-effects such as fever, pale skin, bruising, red or purple colored spots under the skin, jaundice, unusual and unstoppable bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, bleeding gums); unexpected vaginal bleeding, blood in urine or stools, tarry or dark colored stools, weakness, dizziness, sudden numbness, sudden headache, problems with speech, vision or balance; chest pain, pain that starts spreading to arms or shoulders, nausea, sweating, feeling of being ill. If you experience any of these side effects, inform your doctor immediately.

Mild headache, dizziness, pain in the back, minor chest pain, nausea, cough and tiredness are some less serious side effects of Effient.