Indications 

Brilinta is an antiplatelet medication that inhibits platelets from aggregating and forming harmful blood clots that can obstruct an artery. 

Brilinta is prescribed to decrease the likelihood of a heart attack, stroke, or death caused by a blocked artery or a prior heart attack. 

Brilinta is used to minimize the risk of blood clots in patients with coronary artery disease who have undergone stent implantation to restore obstructed arteries. 

Brilinta is utilized to decrease the risk of a first heart attack or stroke in patients with reduced blood flow to the heart. 

Brilinta is recommended to reduce the risk of stroke and mortality in adults with an arterial blockage or reduced blood flow to the brain. 

Uses and Dosage 

Read the Medication Guide provided by their pharmacist before starting ticagrelor and with each refill. If there are any questions, consult with a doctor or pharmacist. 

Ticagrelor should be taken orally as directed by a doctor, usually twice daily, with or without food. Dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. Follow the doctor’s instructions carefully, and take a low-dose aspirin once a day as directed. 

If swallowing the tablet is difficult, it may be crushed and mixed with water in a glass, then consumed immediately. The glass should be refilled with water, stirred, and drunk to ensure the entire dose is taken. 

To get the maximum benefit from ticagrelor, it should be taken regularly at the same times each day. Do not increase the dose or take the medication more often or for a longer period than prescribed. Doing so will not improve the patient’s condition any faster and will increase the risk of side effects. 

Patients should continue taking this medication even if they feel well and should not stop taking it without consulting their doctor. Stopping ticagrelor early may result in a higher risk of heart attack or stroke. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction to Brilinta, including: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms: 

• Chest pain 
• Fainting or dizziness 
• Nosebleeds or any bleeding that does not stop 
• Shortness of breath even with mild exertion or while lying down 
• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding, purple or red spots under your skin 
• Red, pink, or brown urine 
• Black, bloody, or tarry stools 
• Coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds 

Common Side Effects 

• Bleeding 
• Shortness of breath 

Caution 

Prior to commencing this prescription drug, disclose your complete medical history to your physician, including a history of bleeding, gout, liver disease, recent injuries or surgeries, and heart rhythm problems. Certain medical conditions may have an impact on how your body responds to the medication. Inform your physician about all prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, herbal products, and supplements you are currently taking due to possible drug interactions with this antiplatelet agent. 

While taking this oral medication, remain vigilant for any signs of an allergic reaction. Do not take this tablet if you have a known allergy to ticagrelor or any of the inactive ingredients contained in each tablet. If you experience symptoms of hypersensitivity, such as breathing difficulty, severe dizziness, facial swelling, skin rashes, or hives, immediately discontinue medication and seek emergency medical attention. 

Exercise caution when handling sharp objects such as knives, razors, and nail cutters. You should avoid contact sports or any activity that could increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. 

Dizziness is one of the adverse effects of this medication, which could be exacerbated by alcohol consumption. As much as possible, limit the intake of alcoholic drinks. Practice safety precautions when driving, operating machinery, or performing activities that require alertness. 

Pregnant and breastfeeding women must consult their doctors before taking this medication. Keep in mind that the potential benefits must outweigh the potential hazards.