Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Ticagrelor is an antiplatelet drug that is utilized in combination with low-dose aspirin to mitigate the risk of heart attack and stroke in individuals with a history of heart disease, stroke, or those who are at an elevated risk for such conditions.
This medication may also be administered to prevent blood clotting after certain heart surgeries, such as stent placement. By inhibiting platelet aggregation, ticagrelor effectively averts the formation of harmful clots, thereby facilitating smooth blood flow within the body.
Uses and Dosage
Ticagrelor is administered orally in tablet form and is typically taken twice daily with or without food, at consistent intervals. Carefully adhere to the prescribed dosing regimen and follow the instructions on the prescription label. Do not alter the dosage by taking more or less than prescribed, or take it more frequently than recommended.
If swallowing the tablets is problematic, you may crush them and mix them with water. After drinking the mixture, refill the glass with water, stir it, and drink it immediately. Your physician or pharmacist will provide specific instructions on how to prepare ticagrelor for administration through a nasogastric tube.
The effectiveness of ticagrelor in preventing serious heart and blood vessel issues is contingent on consistent use. Even if you feel well, do not stop taking ticagrelor without consulting your doctor.
Abruptly discontinuing the medication may increase the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. If you have a stent, abruptly discontinuing ticagrelor may also elevate the risk of developing a blood clot in the stent.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness
- nausea
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- back pain
- bleeding gums
- blurred vision
- chest pain, tightness, or discomfort
- confusion
- cough
- coughing up blood
- difficult or trouble breathing
- dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
- fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- headache
- increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding
- lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
- loss of consciousness
- nausea or vomiting
- nervousness
- nosebleeds
- paralysis
- pounding in the ears
- prolonged bleeding from cuts
- red or black, tarry stools
- red or dark brown urine
- sweating
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- unusual tiredness or weakness
Caution
Prior to initiating ticagrelor treatment, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist of any allergies you may have to this medication or other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could potentially cause allergic reactions or other complications.
Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of bleeding disorders, gout, liver disease, recent surgery, serious injury or trauma, or heart rhythm abnormalities (heart block or fast/slow/irregular heartbeat).
This medication may cause dizziness, and consuming alcohol or marijuana may exacerbate this side effect. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in any activities that require alertness until you are able to do so safely.
Taking this medication may increase the risk of stomach bleeding, particularly with daily alcohol use.
To minimize the risk of cuts, bruises, or injuries, use caution when handling sharp objects like razors or nail clippers, and avoid participation in contact sports.
If you are pregnant, use this medication only if it is absolutely necessary and with the approval of your doctor. The potential risks and benefits should be thoroughly discussed with your healthcare provider.
It is unclear whether this medication passes into breast milk. Before breastfeeding, consult your doctor.
Form and Strength
Brilinta is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Brilinta tablet:
- 60mg
- 90mg
-
ticagrelor tablet:
- 60mg
- 90mg
FAQ
Is Brilinta a blood thinner or antiplatelet?
Brilinta is an antiplatelet medication.
How long do you take Brilinta after a stent?
It has been common practice for patients who have had a stent placed to clear a blocked artery to take Brilinta plus aspirin for 12 months after the procedure.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/brilinta/what-is
- https://www.lancastergeneralhealth.org/health-hub-home/2015/may/how-long-should-you-take-anticlotting-medications-after-getting-a-stent#:~:text=It%20has%20been%20common%20practice,12%20months%20after%20the%20procedure
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/brilinta
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ticagrelor-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20075070?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-156521/brilinta-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a611050.html
- https://www.drugs.com/brilinta.html
