Prasugrel, an experimental anticlotting drug from Eli Lilly reduces the risk of heart attacks when compared with the common drug Plavix in experimental trials. But it also increases your risk of fatal bleeding by an astonishing 400 percent.
In spite of this, Lilly and Daiichi Sankyo, the drug’s co-developer, say that they are “pleased” with the results of the trials. They plan to apply for FDA approval for the drug as early as the end of 2007, which means it could be on the market by the end of 2008.
Dr. Tim Anderson, a former emergency room doctor and current drug industry analyst, was skeptical of Prasugrel. Although it has better efficacy, he noted that, “... higher bleeding, including fatal bleeding -- it’s a question mark, a serious question mark, both regulatory and commercial.”
Nonetheless, if Prasugrel is approved, worldwide sales could reach $1.6 billion a year by 2012.
It’s truly disheartening to know that drugs like Prasugrel will probably be approved, judging by the U.S. FDA’s previous history. Remember, Plavix was found to elevate your risk of developing ulcers by a factor of 12 versus aspirin and Nexium. Prasugrel, with its 400 percent increased risk of fatal bleeding, is obviously not a better choice.
No matter what your doctor may tell you, aspirin, or worse, even more expensive aspirin-like drugs, are not your solution for decreasing your risk from heart disease or stroke.
So what can you do to authentically, safely and inexpensively lower your risk of heart disease?
A safe and effective alternative to aspirin is nattokinase, a powerful enzyme derived from the food natto. Unlike aspirin, and other pharmaceutical agents, nattokinase has been used safely for over 20 years, has not been known to produce any negative side effects -- and it is not known to be an allergen.
You can also use these other lifestyle modifications to protect your heart: