Description
Brilinta is a medication that contains the active ingredient ticagrelor. It belongs to a class of drugs known as platelet aggregation inhibitors. Here are some key details about Brilinta:
Uses: Brilinta is used to lower your risk of heart attack, stroke, or death due to a blocked artery or a prior heart attack. It is also used to lower your risk of blood clots if you have coronary artery disease (decreased blood flow to the heart) and have been treated with stents to open clogged arteries. Furthermore, it is used to lower your risk of a first heart attack or stroke if you have decreased blood flow to the heart. Brilinta is also used to lower the risk of stroke and death in adults with a blockage or decreased blood flow in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. This medicine is usually given together with low-dose aspirin.
How it works: Brilinta prevents platelets in your blood from sticking together to form an unwanted blood clot that could block an artery.
Dosage: The usual dosage is 90 mg of Brilinta twice daily during the first year.
Side Effects: Brilinta may cause you to bleed more easily, which can be severe or life-threatening. Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding or injury. Call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if you have bleeding that will not stop.
Warnings: You should not use Brilinta if you have any active bleeding (including a bleeding stomach ulcer), or a history of bleeding in the brain. Do not use this medicine just before heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). You may need to stop using this medicine for a short time before having surgery or dental work, to prevent excessive bleeding. Do not stop taking Brilinta without first talking to your doctor, even if you have signs of bleeding. Stopping this medicine may increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Please consult with a healthcare practitioner before starting any new medication.
