Indications
- Prasugrel is used with aspirin by heart disease patients.
- Medication prevents heart/blood vessel problems.
- Blocks platelets from sticking together.
- Prevents harmful blood clots.
- “Anti-platelet” effect maintains smooth blood flow.
Dosage and administration
- Read Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet before starting prasugrel and with each refill.
- Take medication orally, with or without food, as directed by doctor, usually once daily.
- Doctor may advise taking with low-dose aspirin (81-162 milligrams daily).
- Do not split tablet unless directed by doctor.
- Follow doctor’s instructions for taking medication.
- Take prasugrel exactly as directed; do not increase dose or frequency.
- Do not stop medication without doctor’s direction.
- Dosage based on medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.
- Take medication regularly for maximum benefit.
- Take at the same time each day to aid in remembering.
Side effects
- Possible side effects: headache, nausea, nosebleed, stomach upset.
- Inform doctor/pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen.
- Medication prescribed due to benefits outweighing risks.
- Many users don’t experience serious side effects.
- Medication may cause serious bleeding; seek immediate medical attention for signs like frequent or unstoppable nosebleeds, unusual pain/swelling/bruising, prolonged bleeding.
- Rare risk of blood disorder (thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura); seek medical help for symptoms like vision changes, trouble speaking, confusion, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, kidney problems, weakness, unexplained fever.
- Very rare serious allergic reaction; seek immediate medical help for severe rash, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.
- Not an exhaustive list; report any other unlisted effects to doctor/pharmacist.
Precautions
- Inform doctor/pharmacist of allergies to prasugrel, similar drugs, or other allergens; inactive ingredients may cause reactions.
- Disclose medical history before using medication, especially blood disorders, bleeding problems, blood clots/stroke, recent injury/surgery, liver disease, ulcers.
- Inform doctor/dentist of all products used before surgery/procedures.
- Exercise caution with sharp objects to prevent injury; avoid contact sports.
- Medication may cause stomach bleeding; limit alcohol consumption.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, especially bleeding; discuss risks with doctor.
- Use during pregnancy only if necessary; discuss risks with doctor.
- Consult doctor before breastfeeding as medication’s effect on breast milk is unknown.