Brilinta (Ticagrelor)

Do's

• Take a one-time loading dose of 180 mg on the first day of treatment, followed by a maintenance dose of 90 mg twice daily for preventing cardiovascular events in people with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or a history of heart attack. 
• Take Brilinta by mouth with or without food, usually twice daily, as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Take a low-dose aspirin (usually 75-100 milligrams) once a day as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Take Brilinta regularly at the same time each day to ensure the most benefit from the medication. 
• Crush the tablet if you have trouble swallowing it, mix the crushed tablet with water in a glass, and drink the mixture right away. Refill the glass with water, stir, and drink to ensure you take all your dose. 
• Follow your healthcare provider's directions carefully. 
• Continue taking this medication even if you feel well. 
• Refer to the medication guide provided by your pharmacist and consult your healthcare provider for more detailed information. 
• Ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the dosage and administration of Brilinta. 

Don’ts 

• Don't increase your dose of Brilinta or take it more often or for longer than prescribed. 
• Don't stop taking this medication without consulting your healthcare provider, as stopping early may increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. 

The dosage and length of treatment with Brilinta are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. 

Common Side Effects: 

• Bruising more often than normal
• Diarrhea
• Shortness of breath. 

These side effects may be temporary and may go away within a few days or weeks.

Serious Side Effects: 

• Slow heart rate
• Bleeding
• Allergic reactions

If you experience serious side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek medical attention.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Brilinta, consult your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Brilinta can increase the risk of bleeding, and instances of serious bleeding, such as internal bleeding, may require transfusions or surgery. Manage bleeding without discontinuing Brilinta, as stopping the medication can increase the risk of subsequent cardiovascular events.

Brilinta may interact with other drugs, including certain blood thinners, cholesterol medication, heart or blood pressure medication, opioid medication, seizure medicine, and tuberculosis medicine. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug in combination with Brilinta to avoid potential interactions.

Before undergoing any surgery, inform your healthcare provider about all the products you use, especially Brilinta. Your healthcare provider will provide specific directions for when to stop taking this medication before your surgery.

Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking Brilinta, as it can inhibit one of the enzymes needed to break down the medication for excretion from the body, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding.

Brilinta is contraindicated in patients with a history of intracranial hemorrhage or active pathological bleeding such as peptic ulcer or intracranial hemorrhage. It is also contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to ticagrelor or any component of the product.

This is not a complete list of warnings and precautions, and it is advisable to consult the Medication Guide, Prescribing Information, and a healthcare provider for comprehensive information about the warnings and precautions associated with Brilinta.