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Prasugrel Coupon - Prasugrel 10mg tablet

prasugrel

Generic Effient
Used for Heart Attack
Used for Heart Attack

Prasugrel (also known by its brand name Effient) is a medication that's used as a blood thinner to prevent blood clots in people who have a stent placed in their heart after a heart attack. This medication is also available as a lower-cost generic tablet. The dose is taken once per day. Since prasugrel (Effient) is a blood thinner, an important warning to note is that the medication can make it easier for you to bleed or bruise. Other side effects can include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and headache.

Last reviewed on August 28, 2023
basics-icon

What is Prasugrel (Effient)?

What is Prasugrel (Effient) used for?

  • Prevention of blood clot problems in people who received a stent after a heart attack

How Prasugrel (Effient) works

Prasugrel (Effient) is a type of antiplatelet medication called a P2Y12 inhibitor. It works by preventing your platelets from clumping up together and forming blood clots that could potentially travel to your heart or brain. This lowers your risk for a heart attack or stroke.

When does Prasugrel (Effient) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsEffient
Drug ClassP2Y12 inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$268.84(save 91.82%)
GoodRx discount
$21.99
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What are the side effects of Prasugrel (Effient)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • High blood pressure (8%)
  • High cholesterol (7%)
  • Headache (6%)
  • Bleeding of any kind (5%)
  • Back pain (5%)
  • Shortness of breath (5%)
  • Nausea (5%)
  • Dizziness (4%)
  • Cough (4%)
  • Low blood pressure (4%)
  • Fatigue (4%)

Other Side Effects

  • Chest pain
  • Pain in arms or legs
  • Diarrhea
  • Rash
  • Fever

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe bleeding: feeling faint, lightheaded, dizziness, vomiting or coughing up blood, bloody or dark-colored stools, severe stomach pain or discomfort
  • Blood-clotting problem: headache; confusion; dizziness; tiredness; fever; small, purple spots on the skin; bruising; stomach pain; trouble breathing
When do Prasugrel (Effient) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Risk for minor bleeds (e.g., nosebleed)
Risk for major bleeds
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
Seek immediate medical care if you experience this side effect.
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Blurred vision

dizziness

headache

nervousness

pounding in the ears

slow or fast heartbeat

Less common

Black, tarry stools

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

chest pain or discomfort

chills

cough

difficult or labored breathing

fainting

fever

irregular heartbeat

lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

painful or difficult urination

rapid weight gain

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

swollen glands

tightness in the chest

tingling of the hands or feet

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

unusual weight gain or loss

Incidence not known

Change in mental status

dark or bloody urine

difficulty with speaking

fever

pale color of the skin

pinpoint red spots on the skin

seizures

weakness

yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

Back pain

diarrhea

nausea

pain in the arms or legs

rash

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Prasugrel (Effient)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works well at preventing clots

Works better than clopidogrel (Plavix) to lower your risk of complications after a heart attack

Taken by mouth once per day

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Has a higher risk of bleeding than clopidogrel (Plavix)

Only used for people who have a stent in their heart

Not recommended for people age 75 years and older because of the higher risk of bleeding

Shouldn't use for people with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack ((TIA or "mini-stroke")

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Prasugrel (Effient)

pharmacist
  • Take prasugrel (Effient) with or without food. Taking it with food might help if it's hurting your stomach. Take prasugrel (Effient) at the same time every day.

    • Prasugrel (Effient) can make you bleed more easily. Get medical help right away if you feel lightheaded, dizzy, are vomiting or coughing up blood, or have blood in your stool. These are signs of bleeding that might be happening inside your body.

      • Get medical help as soon as possible if you fall and hit your head while you're taking prasugrel (Effient). Your provider will want to check to make sure you don't have any brain bleeds.

        • Tell your provider and pharmacist about all of the medications (prescription, over the counter, and supplements) that you're taking or planning on taking with prasugrel (Effient). They can make sure your medications are as safe for you as possible. Prasugrel (Effient) can interact with many medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil), opioid pain medications, and warfarin (Coumadin). These interactions can either make prasugrel (Effient) not work as well or raise your risk for bleeding.

          • Speak to your provider or a nutritionist to come up with a heart-healthy diet and exercise plan to follow while you're taking prasugrel (Effient). This can help further lower your risk for another heart attack.

            • Don't stop taking prasugrel (Effient) unless your provider says it's safe for you to do so. Stopping the medication too early can raise your risk of blood clots forming in your body, which can potentially lead to serious and life-threatening complications. If you would like to stop prasugrel (Effient) or switch to another blood thinner, ask your provider how to do so safely.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Prasugrel (Effient)

              Is prasugrel (Effient) a blood thinner?
              Yes, prasugrel (Effient) is a type of blood thinner called an antiplatelet medication. It stops the platelets in your blood from clumping up together and forming blood clots. But as a result, the medication raises your risk for bleeding and bruising. Make sure to contact your provider if you notice unusual bleeding (e.g., bloody urine or stool, coughing up or vomiting blood) or having trouble stopping a bleed.
              When do you stop prasugrel (Effient) before surgery?
              You need to stop prasugrel (Effient) 7 days before any surgery or procedure with a high risk of bleeding. But don't stop taking prasugrel (Effient) without asking your provider first. Not all surgeries or procedures require you to stop the medication; it depends on the risk for bleeding that the surgery or procedure has. This is why it's important to let your providers know of any planned surgeries or procedures ahead of time and that you're taking prasugrel (Effient).
              How long do you take prasugrel (Effient) after getting a stent?
              Typically, you take prasugrel (Effient) for at least a year, after you get a stent placed. But the length of time you need prasugrel (Effient) will depend on your specific situation and risk factors for bleeding or clotting. Some people need to take it for just a few months, while others might need it for a longer time. Discuss with your provider about how long you'll need to take prasugrel (Effient). In general, don't stop taking prasugrel (Effient) unless your provider told you to do so because this could raise your risk for another heart attack.
              Can you drink alcohol while taking prasugrel (Effient)?
              It's recommended to avoid alcohol while you're taking prasugrel (Effient). Alcohol doesn't directly interact with prasugrel (Effient), but it might raise the risk of bleeding. Prasugrel (Effient) itself has a risk of bleeding. So this risk can be even higher if you drink alcohol while you're taking prasugrel (Effient). What's more, bleeding can be severe, especially if you fall and hit your head. Make sure to discuss with your provider if you have concerns about how much and how often you drink. They can talk with you about how to best cut back on how much you drink or stop drinking.
              Is prasugrel (Effient) better than clopidogrel (Plavix)?
              A study comparing prasugrel (Effient) and clopidogrel (Plavix) showed that prasugrel (Effient) was linked to a higher odds of survival and lower odds of heart attack in people who had a stent placed. While this study found no difference in bleeding risk between the two medications, a different study showed a slightly higher risk of bleeding in people taking prasugrel (Effient). Both medications are treatment options for people who've had a heart attack. But a provider might prefer one over the other in certain instances. For example, clopidogrel (Plavix) might be a more preferable choice for people ages 75 years and older because of the higher bleeding risk with prasugrel (Effient). Your provider will compare the risks and benefits for each medication to decide which one is best for you.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Prasugrel (Effient)?

              Prasugrel (Effient) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Bleeding

              • Risk factors: Taking other medications that raise the risk for bleeding (e.g., antiplatelets, anticoagulants, NSAIDs, corticosteroids)| Bleeding problems | Kidney or liver problems | Recent or upcoming surgery | Age 75 years or older | Weigh less than 132 lbs

                Prasugrel (Effient) is a blood thinner, so it raises your risk for bleeding. It can also make it take longer than usual for bleeding to stop. You might also notice that you get bruises more easily or have more bleeding when you get a cut or nosebleed.

                Make sure to tell your provider if you're taking other medications that can cause bleeding. Additionally, tell your provider if you're scheduled for any surgery or procedure because you might need to stop prasugrel (Effient) 7 days before.

                Tell your provider right away if you notice any abnormal bleeding, see any blood in your stool or urine, cough up blood, or feel dizzier. Get medical help right away if you have a fall, head injury, or other kinds of physical injury since you might have bleeding inside your body. And contact your provider right away if you have dark or tarry stool or bleeds that are hard to stop.

                risk-warning

                Risk of heart attack if stopped suddenly or too early

                • Risk factors: Stopping prasugrel (Effient) suddenly or too early | Recent heart attack or stent placement

                  Don't stop taking prasugrel (Effient) unless your provider specifically tells you it's safe to do so. Stopping the medication too early can raise your risk of getting blood clots. This in turn can raise your risk for heart attack or stroke. Contact your provider so they can create a safe plan for you if you want to stop prasugrel (Effient).

                  risk-warning

                  Blood-clotting problem called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)

                  Sometimes, prasugrel (Effient) can cause a rare, life-threatening blood condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). This happens when blood clots form in small blood vessels. Sometimes, this blood-clotting condition can happen within the first 2 weeks of starting prasugrel (Effient). Get medical help right away if you have fever, unusual bleeding, easy bruising, headache, weakness, tiredness, trouble breathing, or confusion. You should get treated for this problem as soon as you can.

                  risk-warning

                  Allergic reaction

                  • Risk factors: Allergy to prasugrel (Effient) or Brilinta (ticagrelor)

                    Allergic reactions to prasugrel (Effient) are possible, including life-threatening reactions like facial swelling and anaphylaxis. If you're allergic to clopidogrel (Plavix) or Brilinta (ticagrelor), you might also be allergic to prasugrel (Effient). Stop taking prasugrel (Effient) and call your provider if you notice a rash or hives after taking this medication. Get medical help right away if you have trouble breathing or swelling in your face, throat, or tongue.

                    dosage

                    Prasugrel (Effient) dosage forms

                    The average cost for 30 tablets of 10mg of Prasugrel (Effient) is $21.99 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 91.82% off the average retail price of $268.84.
                    tablet
                    Tablet
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    5mg90 tablets$38.57$0.43
                    10mg30 tablets$21.99$0.73

                    Typical dosing for Prasugrel (Effient)

                    The typical dose is 10 mg by mouth once daily. For people weighing less than 132 lbs, your provider might consider prescribing a dose of 5 mg once daily to lower your risk of bleeding.

                    For people who are in the hospital right after a heart attack, a single 60-mg loading dose is given first before starting the 10-mg usual daily dose.

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Prasugrel (Effient) and other drugs

                    Prasugrel (Effient) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Prasugrel (Effient). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                    • Defibrotide

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                    How much does Prasugrel (Effient) cost?

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                    contraindications-icon

                    Prasugrel (Effient) contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Prasugrel (Effient) will not be safe for you to take.
                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Prasugrel (Effient)?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Prasugrel (Effient). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Prasugrel (Effient)
                    Used for:
                    • Prevention of blood clot problems in people who received a stent after a heart attack

                    $21.99 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Used for:
                    $4.50 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
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                    latest news

                    What is the latest news about Prasugrel (Effient)?

                    images

                    Prasugrel (Effient) images

                    Brown Oblong M And Ph2 - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    This medicine is Brown, Oblong Tablet Imprinted With "M" And "Ph2".Brown Oblong M And Ph2 - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    Beige Hexagon Aa2 - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    This medicine is Beige, Hexagon Tablet Imprinted With "Aa2".Beige Hexagon Aa2 - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    Brown Oblong 302 And U - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    This medicine is Brown, Oblong Tablet Imprinted With "U" And "302".Brown Oblong 302 And U - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    Beige Round 10 And P - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    This medicine is Beige, Round Tablet Imprinted With "10" And "P".Beige Round 10 And P - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    Beige Hexagon 5123 And Logo 10 - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet
                    This medicine is Beige, Hexagon Tablet Imprinted With "Logo 10" And "5123".Beige Hexagon 5123 And Logo 10 - Prasugrel 10mg Tablet

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                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    American Heart Association. (2023). What is a stent?

                    American Red Cross. (n.d.). Platelets and thrombocytopenia.

                    Aurobindo Pharma Limited. (2024). Prasugrel tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    View All References (9)

                    Gutierrez, J. J., et al. (2023). Perioperative Anticoagulation Management. Statpearls.

                    Khan, S. U., et al. (2020). Dual antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention and drug-eluting stents. Circulation.

                    Krishnamurthy, A., et al. (2019). Real-world comparison of clopidogrel, prasugrel and ticagrelor in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Open Heart.

                    Mukherjee, D. (2016). ACC/AHA guideline update on duration of dual antiplatelet therapy in CAD patients. American College of Cardiology.

                    National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Platelet.

                    Norgard, N. B., et al. (2009). Comparison of prasugrel and clopidogrel in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Vascular Health and Risk Management.

                    Pashek, R. E., et al. (2023). Alcohol intake including wine drinking is associated with decreased platelet reactivity in a large population sample. International Journal of Epidemiology.

                    Qiu, J., et al. (2017). Assessing bleeding risk in patients taking anticoagulants. American Family Physician.

                    Stanley, M., et al. (2023). Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. StatPearls.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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