home > drugs a-z list > effient (prasugrel tablets) drug center > effient (prasugrel tablets) drug

Effient

font size

EFFIENT
(prasugrel) Tablets

WARNING

BLEEDING RISK

Effient can cause significant, sometimes fatal, bleeding [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS].

Do not use Effient in patients with active pathological bleeding or a history of transient ischemic attack or stroke [see CONTRAINDICATIONS].

In patients ≥ 75 years of age, Effient is generally not recommended, because of the increased risk of fatal and intracranial bleeding and uncertain benefit, except in high-risk situations (patients with diabetes or a history of prior MI) where its effect appears to be greater and its use may be considered [see Use in Specific Populations]. Do not start Effient in patients likely to undergo urgent coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). When possible, discontinue Effient at least 7 days prior to any surgery. Additional risk factors for bleeding include:

  • body weight < 60 kg
  • propensity to bleed
  • concomitant use of medications that increase the risk of bleeding (e.g., warfarin, heparin, fibrinolytic therapy, chronic use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDS])

Suspect bleeding in any patient who is hypotensive and has recently undergone coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), CABG, or other surgical procedures in the setting of Effient.

If possible, manage bleeding without discontinuing Effient. Discontinuing Effient, particularly in the first few weeks after acute coronary syndrome, increases the risk of subsequent cardiovascular events [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Effient contains prasugrel, a thienopyridine class inhibitor of platelet activation and aggregation mediated by the P2Y12 ADP receptor. Effient is formulated as the hydrochloride salt, a racemate, which is chemically designated as 5-[(1RS)-2-cyclopropyl-1-(2fluorophenyl)-2-oxoethyl]-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrothieno[3,2-c]pyridin-2-yl acetate hydrochloride. Prasugrel hydrochloride has the empirical formula C20H20FNO3S•HCl representing a molecular weight of 409.90. The chemical structure of prasugrel hydrochloride is:

EFFIENT (prasugrel) Structural Formula Illustration

Prasugrel hydrochloride is a white to practically white solid. It is soluble at pH 2, slightly soluble at pH 3 to 4, and practically insoluble at pH 6 to 7.5. It also dissolves freely in methanol and is slightly soluble in 1- and 2-propanol and acetone. It is practically insoluble in diethyl ether and ethyl acetate.

Effient is available for oral administration as 5 mg or 10 mg elongated hexagonal, film-coated, non-scored tablets, debossed on each side. Each yellow 5 mg tablet is manufactured with 5.49 mg prasugrel hydrochloride, equivalent to 5 mg prasugrel and each beige 10 mg tablet with 10.98 mg prasugrel hydrochloride, equivalent to 10 mg of prasugrel. During manufacture and storage, partial conversion from prasugrel hydrochloride to prasugrel free base may occur. Other ingredients include mannitol, hypromellose, croscarmellose sodium, microcrystalline cellulose, and vegetable magnesium stearate. The color coatings contain lactose, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, triacetin, iron oxide yellow, and iron oxide red (only in Effient 10 mg tablet).

What are the possible side effects of prasugrel (Effient)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • unusual bleeding such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or any bleeding that will not stop;
  • pale skin, fever, easy bruising, purple or red spots under your skin;
  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
  • unexpected vaginal bleeding;
  • feeling very weak or...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Effient »

What are the precautions when taking prasugrel tablets (Effient)?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: cancer, diabetes, tumors, hypothalamus or pituitary gland problems (such as due to head injury, pituitary tumor/surgery).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This medication must not be used during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant,...

Read All Potential Precautions of Effient »

Last reviewed on RxList: 10/6/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


Heart Health

Get the latest treatment options.