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Home > Drug Category > Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors > Effient and Equivalent

Effient (Prasugrel) Information

Effient, which contains the active ingredient prasugrel, is an antiplatelet medication used to prevent blood clots in people with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), such as unstable angina or heart attack, who are undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), including stent placement. It helps reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, and stent thrombosis. Effient is usually taken once daily as a tablet and is often used with aspirin to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of clot-related problems.

The mechanism of action of prasugrel involves irreversibly blocking P2Y12 receptors on platelets, thereby preventing platelets from clumping to form harmful clots. It works faster and more consistently than older antiplatelet drugs, giving strong protection against clot formation, especially for people with coronary stents.

Effient Side Effects

Effient is generally well-tolerated, but because it works by preventing blood clots, bleeding is the most common side effect. Commonly reported effects include easy bruising, nosebleeds, prolonged bleeding from cuts, and bleeding gums. Some people may experience headache, tiredness, nausea, or mild stomach discomfort.

More serious side effects may occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop the medication and seek urgent care if any of the following symptoms appear:
• Severe or unexplained bleeding that does not stop
• Signs of allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; widespread rash
• Signs of internal bleeding, including black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, and coughing up blood
• Signs of possible stroke, including sudden severe headache, weakness on one side, confusion, or trouble speaking
• Very low blood pressure or symptoms of shock due to significant bleeding

Effient Precautions

Do not use Effient if you are allergic to prasugrel or any component of the formulation. It is contraindicated in people with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), as it may significantly increase the risk of bleeding. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your medical history. People with stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, kidney or liver disease, recent trauma or surgery, low body weight (less than 60 kg), or age 75 or older may require special precautions or may not be candidates for Effient due to an elevated risk of bleeding.

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Effient can interact with other medications that increase bleeding risk, including anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, heparin), other antiplatelet medications, NSAIDs, and certain antidepressants. Avoid over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen unless directed by your doctor, as these can raise bleeding risk. Avoid alcohol because it may irritate the stomach and contribute to bleeding.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. There is limited information on its safety in pregnancy. Your doctor will weigh the bleeding risk carefully before prescribing the medicine. Prasugrel passes into breast milk in small amounts, so discuss potential benefits and risks before breastfeeding.

Take Effient exactly as prescribed, typically once daily, with or without food. If you had a stent procedure, your first dose may have been a larger “loading” dose given in the hospital. Take it at the same time each day for continuous protection. Do not stop Effient without talking to your doctor, as stopping suddenly can increase the risk of a heart attack or stent clot. Store tablets at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

Do I need a prescription to order Effient?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Effient.