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Antiplatelet agent (P2Y12 inhibitor / blood thinner)

Ticagrelor: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Brilinta, Brilique.

Queste informazioni hanno carattere puramente orientativo e non costituiscono un parere medico. Consulta sempre un professionista sanitario qualificato per problemi medici personali. In caso di emergenza, chiama il numero di emergenza locale.

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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