Effient
Generic Name: Prasugrel
What is Effient?
Effient is a medication that lessens the ability of your blood to clot. It is used to treat people who have had a heart attack or severe chest pain due to insufficient oxygen and have been treated with a procedure called angioplasty. Effient is used to lower the chance of having another serious heart or blood vessel problem (such as another heart attack, a stroke, or blood clots in a stent), and to lower the risk of death.What is the most important information I should know about Effient?
Effient can cause bleeding, which can be serious and sometimes lead to death. Do not start Effient if it is likely that you will have heart bypass surgery right away. When possible, discontinue Effient at least 7 days before any surgery, as instructed by your doctor. Notify your doctor prior to any surgery or dental procedure.You may have a higher bleeding risk if you have had trauma or surgery, have stomach or intestinal bleeding, have a stomach ulcer, have severe liver problems, weigh <132 pounds, or take certain other medications.
Effient may cause a rare but serious condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) that needs to be treated right away. TTP is a condition in which blood clots form in the blood vessels and can occur all over the body. Get medical help right away if you develop any of these symptoms that cannot otherwise be explained: fever, weakness, extreme skin paleness, purple skin patches, yellowing of the skin or eyes, fast heart rate, shortness of breath, or neurological changes (confusion, speech changes).
Who should not take Effient?
Do not take Effient if you have abnormal bleeding, such as stomach or intestinal bleeding, or bleeding in the head.Do not take Effient if you have a history of stroke or "mini-stroke" (transient ischemic attack or TIA). Discontinue Effient if you have a stroke while taking it.
Effient is generally not recommended in patients who are ≥75 years old due to an increased risk of bleeding.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Effient?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Effient. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have bleeding problems; a history of stomach ulcers, colon polyps (a non-cancerous growth on the surface of the colon), or diverticulosis (a condition in which pockets form in the large intestine); liver problems; or recent injury or surgery.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The initial dose is a single dose of 60 milligrams (mg). Afterward, the maintenance dose is 10 mg once daily. Underweight people may be instructed to take a lower maintenance dose of 5 mg once daily.
How should I take Effient?
Take Effient exactly as prescribed with or without food. Aspirin should also be taken as instructed by your doctor.What should I avoid while taking Effient?
Avoid stopping Effient without talking to your doctor.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Effient?
If Effient is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Effient with the following: heparin, pain relievers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen), and warfarin.What are the possible side effects of Effient?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: bleeding, high or low blood pressure, high cholesterol, headache, back pain, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, cough, fatigue
Can I receive Effient if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Effient during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Effient?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Effient?
Store at room temperature. Keep Effient in the container it comes in and keep the container closed tightly with the gray cylinder inside. Protect from moisture.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
