Prasuvas (prasugrel) is an antiplatelet medication. It is typically prescribed to prevent blood clots from forming in high-risk patients, usually after a major medical event such as a heart attack, or following a medical procedure such as having a stent put in. Other medications, usually aspirin, are also typically prescribed with Prasuvas.

Note that while Prasuvas works well in preventing the formation of blood clots, it should not be used in patients who have had a stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or other bleeding in the head. Patients with a history stomach or intestinal bleeding may be poor candidates for this treatment.

Product Overview

As an antiplatlet medication, Prasuvas inhibits the ability of platelets to clump together to form a blood clot. This action is distinct from anticoagulant medications, which simply delay the ability of blood to clot, but do not ultimately prevent it. The two do share many properties and both have their uses, but in preventing blood clots and related complications, antiplatlets like Prasuvas are preferred.

Patients who have had a heart attack, a stent, or an angioplasty may be given a prescription for Prasuvas. There are additional cardiovascular issues that may also see benefit from the medications, though use in other conditions is relatively rare.

It's important to note that patients who have had a heart attack, stent, or angioplasty but who also have a history of stroke or bleeding in the head will probably be advised against taking Prasuvas; benefits do not outweigh the risks in these cases.

Dosage & Administration

Prasuvas comes in tablets, typically taken just once per day. Food is optional according to personal preference.

Treatment is very similar in most cases:

• Start with a 60 mg loading dose, taken just once.
• Every day after, take 10 mg per day.
• Patients at high risk of complications should take 5 mg per day instead.

Aspirin is usually also prescribed, typically 75 to 325 mg per day, as determined by a doctor. Patients don't feel different from taking Prasuvas; its benefit is in preventing blood clots from forming. It's important to continue taking the medication for as long as a doctor recommends, which can vary between patients.

Because blood will clot poorly, any kind of surgery---including dental surgery---should be avoided if at all possible while taking Prasuvas. The medication should be stopped at least 1 week prior to surgery, and not be taken for several weeks after surgery, depending on how serious the surgery is and how quickly the patient heals.

Likewise patients should take care to avoid injury while taking Prasuvas. Avoid unnecessary risks, such as contact sports, and use great care while shaving, use soft-bristle toothbrushes, and so forth. Bleeding, if it occurs, can be difficult to stop. Even small wounds may require medical attention if unable to control bleeding.

Potential Complications

Prasuvas should not be taken by patients with a history of:

• Stomach or intestinal bleeding
• Stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or other bleeding in the head

Patients should carefully discuss risks and warning signs with a doctor before use if:

• Age 75 or over
• Weigh under 132 pounds (60 kg)
• Take other antiplatelets, anticoagulants, or blood thinners
• Routinely use NSAIDs
• Have a stomach ulcer
• Have moderate to severe liver or kidney problems
• Have recently had a major injury or surgery

The above don't necessarily rule out Prasuvas use, but patients may be instructed to take smaller, 5 mg doses rather than the usual 10 mg. Sometimes use will need to be delayed for a while, or should not take place at all.

All patients should contact a doctor right away if experiencing:

• Unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Inability to control bleeding
• Blood in urine (pink or brown urine)
• Blood in stools (red or black stool)
• Coughing or vomiting blood

Prasuvas is known to interact with some other medications, especially other blood thinners and NSAIDs, but other treatments as well. Patients are encouraged to double-check with a doctor or pharmacist before mixing treatments while taking Prasuvas.