US Brand Name: {Brilinta} ({Ticagrelor})
Pharmacologic category:
{P2Y12 platelet inhibitors} Other medications in the same pharmacologic category include: {Plavix} ({Clopidogrel}), {Effient} ({Prasugrel})
Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration
{Acute coronary syndrome} (ACS): 180 mg loading dose, followed by 90 mg twice daily for up to 12 months
{Unstable angina}: Same as for ACS
{Non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction} (NSTEMI): Same as for ACS
{ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction} (STEMI): Same as for ACS
{Percutaneous coronary intervention} (PCI) following a {myocardial infarction}: Same as for ACS
{Coronary artery stenting}: Same as for ACS
Secondary prevention of {atherothrombotic events} in patients with a history of {myocardial infarction}: 60 mg twice daily
Dosage Forms and Strengths:
Oral tablet: 90 mg and 60 mg
Administration Instructions:
Take with or without food Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:
{Bleeding} (common; up to 16%): Can range from minor to severe, potentially life-threatening bleeding {Shortness of breath} (14%): Difficulty breathing or catching one’s breath {Headache} (6%): Pain or discomfort in the head or scalp area {Dizziness} (5-12%): A sensation of unsteadiness, lightheadedness, or faintness, which may increase the risk of falls {Nausea} (4-7%): Feeling sick with an urge to vomit {Cough} (1-10%): A dry, persistent cough resulting from the medication’s effect on the lungs {Hypotension} (1-5%): Low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting {Hyperkalemia} (1-5%): Elevated potassium levels in the blood, which can cause irregular heartbeats or other heart-related issues {Angioedema} (less than 1%): Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can cause difficulty breathing and requires immediate medical attention
Contraindications:
History of {intracranial hemorrhage} Active {pathological bleeding} Severe {hepatic impairment} Hypersensitivity to {ticagrelor} or any component of the formulation
Drug to Drug Interactions:
{Aspirin} (Acetylsalicylic Acid): High doses of aspirin (>100 mg daily) should be avoided {Coumadin} ({Warfarin}): Increased risk of bleeding {Lovenox} ({Enoxaparin}): Increased risk of bleeding {Heparin}: Increased risk of bleeding {CYP3A4 inhibitors} (e.g., {Ketoconazole}, {Itracon azole): May increase {ticagrelor} exposure and risk of adverse effects {CYP3A4 inducers} (e.g., {Rifampin}, {Carbamazepine}): May decrease {ticagrelor} exposure and reduce effectiveness
Pregnancy:
There is limited information on the use of {ticagrelor} during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Breastfeeding:
It is not known whether {ticagrelor} is excreted in human milk. Consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Estimated price for a 30-day supply without insurance and using a GoodRx coupon:
The estimated price for a 30-day supply of {Brilinta} 90 mg tablets is around $340, but the price may vary depending on the pharmacy and location.
Legal Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.