Effient (Prasugrel)

Effient tablets

What is this product?

Prasugrel is in a class of medications called anti-platelet medications. It prevents platelets (a type of blood cell) from collecting and forming clots that may cause a heart attack or stroke. Effient comes packaged as a tablet, and should be swallowed whole with water. It also sells in its generic form, under the name Prasugrel. A valid prescription will be needed to purchase Effient or Prasugrel generic. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

What does Effient Do?

Effient is an adenosine diphosphate (ADP) receptor antagonist and can be prescribed to those that cannot tolerate aspirin or that require dual antiplatelet therapy. When taken as directed, Effient works to reduce the clumping (aggregation) of platelets by irreversibly (permanently) binding to P2Y12 receptors. Platelets are found in large numbers in blood and play a role in clotting. Without ADP available to activate platelets, blood is less likely to clot and cause a possible stroke or heart attack.

Conditions Treated by Effient

You may need Effient if you are about to undergo angioplasty surgery. Angioplasty is a type of heart surgery that inserts a mesh tube (called a stent) into one of more of your heart’s arteries. It is often necessary, as it widens narrowed parts of the heart and helps reduce cardiovascular emergencies. But there are risk factors involved, as dangerous blood clots may form around the stent. Effient will lower these risks by blocking the action of certain blood clotting processes.

Before You Take Effient

Effient may not be right for you if are experiencing active bleeding from disease or injury, or if you have a history of stroke. Your doctor will need to know whether you have ever been diagnosed with severe liver disease or stomach ulceration before you start taking Effient. Ask your doctor about the safety of taking Effient if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding.

Important Information About Effient

Make sure to watch for signs of uncontrolled bleeding during treatment; these include black or bloody stools and coughing up blood, and should be reported right away. Do not have any dental or other surgical procedures until the medical staff has been informed that you are taking Effient.

Some painkillers and HIV drugs are known to interact negatively with Effient so list any OTC and Rx drugs you currently take or use and provide information regarding other medical conditions you are being treated for to be certain Effient is the right medication for you.

Possible Side Effects of Effient

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Chest or back pain
• Nausea
• Fatigue
  

You should call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects while taking Effient: jaundice; blood in your urine; feeling weak or dizzy; unusual bleeding or unexpected vaginal bleeding.