Uses
Vorapaxar is used together with other medications, such as aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix), to reduce the risk of serious or life-threatening heart or blood vessel problems such as heart attack and stroke in people who have already had a heart attack or have problems with the blood flow in their legs. Vorapaxar is in a class of medications called protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1) antagonists. It works by preventing platelets (a type of blood cell) from collecting and forming clots that may cause a heart attack or stroke.
Side Effects Of Vorapaxar
Vorapaxar may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- tiredness
- weakness
- pale skin
- cool hands and feet
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the symptoms listed in the WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS section, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment.
- Vorapaxar may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking vorapaxar:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to vorapaxar, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in vorapaxar tablets. Ask your pharmacist or check the Medication Guide for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention the medications listed in the WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS section and any of the following: certain antifungals such as itraconazole (Sporanox, Onmel), ketoconazole (Nizoral), and posaconazole (Noxafil); boceprevir (Victrelis); carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol); clarithromycin (Biaxin, in PrevPac); conivaptan (Vaprisol); certain medications for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) such as indinavir (Crixivan), nelfinavir (Viracept), ritonavir (Norvir, in Kaletra), and saquinavir (Invirase); nefazodone; phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek); rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane); telaprevir (Incivek); and telithromycin (Ketek); Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor what herbal products you are taking, especially St. Johns’s wort.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any medical condition especially those listed in the WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS section.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking vorapaxar, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking vorapaxar.
Dosage Of Vorapaxar
Vorapaxar comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food once a day. Take vorapaxar at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take vorapaxar exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Vorapaxar will only decrease your risk of having a heart attack or stroke as long as you continue to take the medication. Do not stop taking vorapaxar without talking to your doctor.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
