US Brand Name: Effient (Prasugrel)
Pharmacologic category:
{Antiplatelet agent}, P2Y12 platelet inhibitor. Other medications in the same pharmacologic category include: {Plavix} (Clopidogrel), {Brilinta} (Ticagrelor).
Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration
{Acute coronary syndrome} (ACS): 60 mg loading dose, followed by 10 mg daily. Duration of treatment depends on the clinical condition and physician’s recommendation.
{Unstable angina}: 60 mg loading dose, followed by 10 mg daily. Duration of treatment depends on the clinical condition and physician’s recommendation.
{Non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction} (NSTEMI): 60 mg loading dose, followed by 10 mg daily. Duration of treatment depends on the clinical condition and physician’s recommendation.
{ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction} (STEMI): 60 mg loading dose, followed by 10 mg daily. Duration of treatment depends on the clinical condition and physician’s recommendation.
{Percutaneous coronary intervention} (PCI) following a myocardial infarction: 60 mg loading dose, followed by 10 mg daily. Duration of treatment depends on the clinical condition and physician’s recommendation.
{Coronary artery stenting}: 60 mg loading dose, followed by 10 mg daily. Duration of treatment depends on the clinical condition and physician’s recommendation.
Dosage Forms and Strengths:
Tablets – 5 mg and 10 mg.
Administration Instructions:
Take {Prasugrel} orally with or without food, at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet whole; do not break, crush, or chew.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:
{Bleeding events} (variable, depending on the patient population and study): Bruising, nosebleeds, and bleeding gums. In rare cases, serious internal bleeding may occur. {Major bleeding} (2-4%): Severe bleeding that requires medical intervention. {Minor bleeding} (15-30%): Less severe bleeding events that do not require medical intervention.
{Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura} (TTP) (<0.1%): A blood disorder that causes clot formation in small blood vessels.
{Allergic reactions} (less than 1%): Hives, rash, and difficulty breathing.
{Headache} (1-3%): Pain or discomfort in the head or neck region.
{Dizziness} (1-3%): A sensation of lightheadedness or feeling faint, which may increase the risk of falls.
{Fatigue} (2-4%): A feeling of tiredness or exhaustion.
{Dyspnea} (1-3%): Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
Drug to Drug Interactions:
{Warfarin} (Coumadin, Jantoven): Increased risk of bleeding. {Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs} (NSAIDs) such as {ibuprofen} (Advil, Motrin) and {naproxen} (Aleve, Naprosyn): Increased risk of bleeding. {Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors} (SSRIs) such as {fluoxetine} (Prozac) and {sertraline} (Zoloft): Increased risk of bleeding.
Pregnancy:
{Prasugrel} should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult your healthcare provider.
Breastfeeding:
It is unknown if {Prasugrel} passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.
Estimated price:
The estimated price for a 30-day supply of {Prasugrel} without insurance and using a GoodRx coupon is approximately $35-$50, depending on the dosage and pharmacy. Prices may vary.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.