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Antiplatelet agent (P2Y12 inhibitor / blood thinner)

Ticagrelor: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Brilinta, Brilique.

Ces informations sont fournies à titre indicatif uniquement et ne constituent pas un avis médical. Consultez toujours un professionnel de santé qualifié pour toute préoccupation médicale personnelle. En cas d'urgence, appelez votre numéro d'urgence local.

What it is used for

  • Preventing clots after a heart attack or acute coronary syndrome
  • Used after heart stents, usually together with low-dose aspirin for a set period
  • Lowering the risk of further heart attacks and strokes in people at high risk

How it works

Ticagrelor stops platelets from clumping together by blocking a receptor (P2Y12) they use to stick. This makes clots less likely to form in narrowed heart arteries, reducing the chance of a heart attack.

How it is taken

Usually supplied as oral tablets, typically taken twice a day with or without food, often alongside low-dose aspirin. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and do not stop it early after a stent or heart attack without specialist advice.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Shortness of breath (a recognised effect that often settles)
  • Easy bruising
  • Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
  • Dizziness
  • Headache

Serious effects — get help

  • Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding, blood in urine or stools, black/tarry stools, vomiting or coughing up blood - seek urgent care
  • Sudden severe headache, weakness or confusion (possible brain bleed) - emergency
  • Severe or worsening breathlessness
  • Fainting or a very slow heartbeat
  • Serious allergic reaction: facial or throat swelling, trouble breathing

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Other blood thinners and high-dose aspirin
  • Anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs)
  • Certain antifungal, HIV and seizure medicines
  • Some cholesterol medicines (e.g. higher-dose simvastatin)
  • Large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice (can raise ticagrelor levels)
  • St John's Wort

Who should take care

  • Do not stop early after a stent without specialist advice - this can be dangerous
  • Tell your clinician about any breathing conditions such as asthma or COPD
  • Report any history of bleeding, gout, liver problems or a slow heartbeat
  • Tell any doctor, dentist or surgeon you take it before procedures
  • Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with your clinician

Frequently asked questions

Why do I feel short of breath on ticagrelor?
Breathlessness is a known side effect that is usually mild and often improves over time. Tell your clinician if it is severe or worsening so it can be assessed.
Why twice a day rather than once?
Ticagrelor needs twice-daily dosing to keep steady protection. Taking both doses on time is important - follow your label.
Can I stop it once I feel better?
Stopping early, especially after a stent, can lead to a dangerous clot. Only stop when your specialist advises.
Does the aspirin dose matter with it?
Ticagrelor works best with low-dose aspirin; higher aspirin doses can reduce its benefit. Follow exactly what your clinician prescribes.
Is Ticagrelor safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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