Brilinta (Ticagrelor) Information
Brilinta, which contains the active ingredient ticagrelor, is an antiplatelet medication used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death. It is often prescribed for people with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or a history of myocardial infarction. It is also used to prevent clot-related complications in patients undergoing stent placement. In ACS and other forms of coronary artery disease, plaque buildup in the arteries can rupture or become unstable. When this occurs, platelets rapidly clump together and form a clot. If the clot blocks blood flow to part of the heart, it causes a heart attack. If it blocks blood flow to the brain, it causes a stroke. Preventing platelet clumping is essential for maintaining blood flow in patients at risk of these events. Brilinta is taken by mouth as a tablet, usually twice daily. It is often prescribed alongside low-dose aspirin for long-term cardiovascular protection.
The mechanism of action of ticagrelor involves reversibly blocking the P2Y12 receptors on platelets, preventing them from becoming activated and sticking together. This stops platelet activation, helping keep blood flowing smoothly through arteries. Unlike some older antiplatelet medications, ticagrelor does not require metabolic activation, allowing it to work more quickly and consistently. Its reversible binding also allows platelet function to recover faster once the drug is stopped, which can be important before specific medical procedures.
Brilinta Side Effects
Brilinta is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may occur. Common side effects include shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, nausea, and bruising. Some people may experience mild diarrhea, increased urination, or a sensation of breathing discomfort when lying down. Nosebleeds or easy bruising can occur due to reduced platelet activity.
More serious side effects can occur, leading to significant monitoring protocols. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur. Do not discontinue the medication on your own, as this increases the risk of a heart attack or stent clotting. Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include:
• Irregular heartbeat, fainting, or severe dizziness
• Severe shortness of breath or breathing that suddenly worsens
• Signs of allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, rash
• Signs of severe bleeding: vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, coughing up blood, or unexplained bruising
• Sudden numbness, vision changes, confusion, or trouble speaking (possible stroke symptoms)
Brilinta Precautions
Do not use Brilinta if you are allergic to ticagrelor or any ingredient in the medication. If you have active bleeding or have a history of intracranial hemorrhage, do not use this medicine. Patients with severe liver impairment should not take Brilinta. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of any history of bleeding disorders, recent surgery, ulcers, heart rhythm problems, breathing issues, gout, or liver disease. Because Brilinta increases bleeding risk, your doctor may monitor you more closely if you have risk factors for internal bleeding.
Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, supplements, and herbal remedies. Brilinta interacts with blood thinners (warfarin, heparin, DOACs), other antiplatelet drugs, NSAIDs, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as certain antifungals and antibiotics), seizure medications, and high-dose aspirin. Do not take more than 100 mg of aspirin daily, as higher doses can reduce the effectiveness of Brilinta. Alcohol may also increase the risk of stomach bleeding and should be limited.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Because Brilinta is an antiplatelet medicine, it can increase bleeding risk for both the mother and the fetus, particularly around delivery. Your doctor will weigh the risks and benefits before prescribing it during pregnancy. There is limited information on the excretion of ticagrelor into breast milk. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine when breastfeeding with your doctor.
Take Brilinta exactly as prescribed, usually one tablet twice daily, with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent platelet inhibition. Do not stop taking Brilinta suddenly unless instructed to do so. Stopping this medicine suddenly can increase the risk of a heart attack or stent thrombosis. Store the medication at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of reach of children.
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