Frequently Asked Questions

Click one of the questions from the list below to find the answer.

• Get to know Effient
• How is Effient different from other medicines?
• What are the possible side effects of Effient?
• How do I take Effient?
• How do I store Effient?
• How was Effient studied?

Effient^® (prasugrel) is an oral antiplatelet (OAP) medicine specifically for patients who have undergone an angioplasty procedure to open up a blocked heart artery after experiencing a heart attack or heart-related chest pain at rest (unstable angina ). This procedure, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), normally includes the placement of a stent to keep the artery open.

Antiplatelet medicines help keep platelets from sticking together and causing a blockage in an artery. Blood clots are a major cause of heart attacks.

Aspirin is a type of antiplatelet medicine that helps protect you in a different way than your prescription antiplatelet medication. Effient and aspirin work together to help keep platelets from sticking together and causing blockages (clots) in the arteries of your heart, thereby helping to reduce the risk of a future heart attack.

Antiplatelet medicines like Effient reduce the ability of blood to clot, which is a good thing when it comes to your stent and the arteries of your heart. On the other hand, because your blood doesn't clot as well, antiplatelet medicines can also increase the risk of bleeding. Bleeding is the most common side effect of Effient. Some bleeding can be life threatening and even fatal. See the safety and side effects section to learn more about the safety profile of Effient.

You may be taking other medicines as part of your treatment plan, as well, such as prescription cholesterol and blood pressure medicines. But these medicines do not reduce clot formation. Each medicine has its own unique role in your treatment, so ask your doctor if you have further questions about Effient or other medications you take.

When to call the doctor
Bleeding is the most common side effect of Effient. Some bleeding can be life threatening, and even fatal. Call your doctor right away if you notice any of the following:

• Unexpected bleeding or bleeding that lasts a long time, or bleeding you cannot control
• Pink or brown urine, red or black stools, or bruises that get larger or happen without a known cause
• Coughing or vomiting that produces blood or blood clots, or vomit that looks like "coffee grounds"

What you can do at home
Some people may bruise more easily, develop nosebleeds, or notice that cuts take longer to stop bleeding. Here are things you can try to reduce the risk of these events:

• Try using a soft toothbrush that's a little easier on your gums
• Consider shaving with an electric razor to reduce minor cuts
• You may want to gently blow your nose, and/or moisturize your nostrils with a saline spray or petroleum jelly if they are unusually dry
• Consider taking it easy around the house. You can also make some adjustments in your home to avoid bumps and bruises

Bleeding is not the only side effect of Effient.

Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of Effient. If you have any problems or questions while taking Effient, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. See the Safety and Side Effects section to learn more about the safety profile of Effient.

Please read the Safety Information and Boxed Warning and Medication Guide to learn more about the safety of Effient.

It is important to take Effient exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will prescribe the right dose of Effient for you. It is also important to get your refills on time so you do not run out of medicine.

When taking Effient:

• Take Effient exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Take Effient one time each day
• You can take Effient with or without food
• Take Effient with aspirin as instructed by your doctor
• Your doctor will decide how long you should take Effient. Do not stop taking Effient without first talking to the doctor who prescribed it for you
• If you miss a dose, take Effient as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Just take the next dose at your regular time. Do not take two doses at the same time unless your doctor tells you to
• If you take too much Effient, call your local emergency room or poison control center right away

For proper storage and handling of Effient, make sure you:

• Keep Effient at room temperature between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C)
• Keep Effient in the container it comes in
• Keep the container closed tightly with the gray cylinder inside
• Protect Effient from moisture

Keep Effient and all medicines out of the reach of children.

You may have heard of another oral antiplatelet medicine called Plavix^® (clopidogrel bisulfate). Effient and Plavix were tested in a clinical study that involved 13,608 patients with acute coronary syndrome who underwent angioplasty. In this study, about half of the patients received Effient and aspirin, and the other half received Plavix and aspirin. On average, patients in the study were treated for about 15 months.

Please read the Safety Information and Boxed Warning and Medication Guide.

Learn more about financial assistance for prescription medicines.