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Cangrelor Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 10, 2024.

Applies to cangrelor: intravenous powder for solution.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check you closely while you are receiving this medicine. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

This medicine may increase your chance of bleeding and bruising. Check with your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising, black, tarry stools, blood in the urine or stools, or pinpoint red spots on your skin.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects of cangrelor

Along with its needed effects, cangrelor 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 or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking cangrelor:

More common side effects

  • abdominal or stomach pain or swelling
  • back pain
  • black, tarry stools
  • blood in the eyes
  • blood in the urine
  • bruising or purple areas on the skin
  • coughing up blood
  • decreased alertness
  • dizziness
  • headache
  • joint pain or swelling
  • nosebleeds

Less common side effects

  • difficult or labored breathing
  • tightness in the chest

Rare side effects

  • cough
  • difficulty with swallowing
  • fast heartbeat
  • hives, itching, or rash
  • large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
  • noisy breathing
  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

For healthcare professionals

Applies to cangrelor: intravenous powder for injection.

General adverse events

The most common adverse reaction was bleeding.[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Global Utilization of Streptokinase and Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Occluded Arteries (GUSTO) bleeding definitions:

Severe/life-threatening GUSTO bleeding: Intracranial hemorrhage or bleeding resulting in substantial hemodynamic compromise requiring treatment.

Moderate GUSTO bleeding: Bleeding requiring blood transfusion but not resulting in hemodynamic compromise.

Mild GUSTO bleeding: All other bleeding not included in severe or moderate.

Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) bleeding definitions:

Major TIMI bleeding: Any intracranial hemorrhage or any overt bleeding associated with a reduction in hemoglobin of at least 5 g/dL (if hemoglobin is not available, an absolute reduction in hematocrit of 15% or more).

Minor TIMI bleeding: Any overt sign of bleeding (including observation by imaging techniques) associated with a reduction in hemoglobin of 3 to less than 5 g/dL (if hemoglobin is not available, an absolute reduction in hematocrit of 9% to less than 15%).[Ref]

Respiratory

Renal

Immunologic

Dermatologic

References

1. (2015) "Product Information. Kengreal (cangrelor)." The Medicines Company

Does Cangrelor interact with my other drugs?

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Further information

Cangrelor side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.