BRILINTA (Ticagrelor)

What is this medication?

BRILINTA (Ticagrelor)
Antiplatelet; Non-thienopyridine P2Y12 Antagonist

BRILINTA (Ticagrelor) is indicated for acute coronary syndrome.

ALERT: WARNING
Ticagrelor, like other antiplatelet agents, can cause significant, sometimes fatal, bleeding. Do not use ticagrelor in patients with active pathological bleeding or a history of intracranial hemorrhage. Do not start ticagrelor in patients undergoing urgent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. If possible, manage bleeding without discontinuing ticagrelor. Stopping ticagrelor increases the risk of subsequent cardiovascular events.

How does this medication work? 

BRILINTA (Ticagrelor) and its active metabolite blocks the P2Y12 site on the ADP receptor on the surface of platelets which prevents the series of events resulting in platelet aggregation from occurring. Due to reversible antagonism, the platelets may recover after withdrawal of medication.

How should I take this medication? 

Oral: Generally a loading dose of 180mg if required followed by 60-90 mg twice daily.

Note: Grapefruit juice may increase the effects of this medication. 

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, take consistently at same times each day unless otherwise directed.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting BRILINTA (Ticagrelor), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have kidney disease, liver disease, if you have a bleeding disorder or active pathological bleed (such as an ulcer), or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

The main side effects are bruising and hemorrhage (bleeding) both minor and major.  Patient should monitor for black tarlike stool, what appears to be coffee grounds in vomit, major unexplained bruising, minor cuts that do not stop bleeding, blood when brushing teeth etc.  These are signs of over anticoagulation or an internal bleed in which case immediate medical attention is required.  May also cause dyspnea (shortness of breath) or dizziness.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for BRILINTA (Ticagrelor), only common ones.