Brilinta (Ticagrelor)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Brilinta Used For?
Brilinta is a medication that helps prevent heart attacks and unstable angina by reducing the clumping of platelets in the blood.
Primary Uses
Brilinta is primarily used to prevent heart attacks and manage unstable angina.
How It Works
Brilinta works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which reduces the risk of blood clots that can block blood vessels.
Good to know: Brilinta is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Brilinta
It is important to take Brilinta exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Dosage Instructions
The initial dose is two tablets taken at once, usually in a hospital setting. Afterward, the typical dose is one tablet taken twice daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take your next dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Important: Never double the dose if you miss one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- shortness of breath
- bruising
- nosebleed
- headache
- stomach pain
- constipation
- diarrhea
- indigestion
- nausea
- rash
- tingling sensation
- fainting
- slow or irregular heart rate
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- signs of stroke (numbness, confusion, difficulty speaking)
- unusual bleeding (blood in urine, black stools)
- severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling)
Impulse Control Issues
There is no mention of impulse control issues related to Brilinta in the provided information.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Brilinta.
Who Should Not Take Brilinta
Do not take Brilinta if you are allergic to ticagrelor or any of its ingredients, have bleeding disorders, severe liver disease, or have had certain types of strokes.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of bleeding issues, asthma, or conditions affecting blood clotting with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Brilinta is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for risks and benefits.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Caution is advised for elderly patients, especially those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Brilinta may interact with other medications, affecting its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Brilinta works.
- ketoconazole
- clarithromycin
- nefazodone
- ritonavir
- atazanavir
- rosuvastatin
- simvastatin (over 40 mg)
- rifampin
- phenytoin
- carbamazepine
- phenobarbital
- dexamethasone
- digoxin
- cyclosporin
- quinidine
- diltiazem
- adenosine
- ergotamine
- beta blockers
- verapamil
- morphine
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol or driving while on Brilinta.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while taking Brilinta.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery, especially if you experience dizziness or confusion.
Temperature Regulation
No specific information on temperature regulation was provided.
Storage
Store Brilinta in its blister pack in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brilinta starts to work quickly, but the full effects may take time to manifest.
You can take Brilinta with or without food.
No, Brilinta is not considered addictive.
Stopping Brilinta suddenly may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke; consult your doctor before discontinuing.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Brilinta.
There is no information indicating that Brilinta causes weight gain.
Elderly patients should use caution when taking Brilinta, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take your next dose as scheduled, but do not double up.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.