Brilinta

Uses
Brilinta (called Brilique in Europe) contains the active ingredient Ticagrelor. Brilinta helps reduce coagulation of the platelets in your blood. This can prevent blood clots associated with certain heart or blood vessel conditions. Ticagrelor is used to decrease the risk of having a stroke or serious heart problems after you have had a heart attack or severe chest pain (angina).

Dosage and Administration
Brilinta (Brilique) comes in a pack of 14 tablets. Each tablet contains 90mg of Ticagrelor.

Brilinta is usually prescribed with aspirin. Follow the dosage instructions given by your doctor.

Brilinta tablets can be swallowed whole with a glass of water, or can be crunched and mixed with liquid to make them easier to swallow.

Side effects
Brilinta can cause serious bleeding that if left untreated can become fatal. While taking Brilinta you will bruise more easily, bleed more easily, may experience more nose bleeds, and may need longer for bleeding to stop.

Signs of internal bleeding may require urgent medical assistance. Notify your doctor if you notice:

• excessive or uncontrollable bleeding
• discolored urine (red, pink or brown)
• vomitting blood
• red or black, tarry stools
• coughing up blood

Precautions
Because Brilinta interferes with platelet coagulation it can inhibit regular wound healing. This is particularly important is you:

• have a history of bleeding problems
• have a history of stomach ulcers
• have had recent serious injury or surgery
• plan to have surgery
• plan to have dental work performed

Before taking Brilinta, make sure your doctor knows if you have any history of cardiovascular issues, liver problems, lung or respiratory issues, or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Some medicines may interact negatively with Brilinta. Tell you doctor of all medicines you are taking especially if you are taking HIV medicines, heart medicines, hypertension medicines, cholesterol medicines, oral anti-fungal medicines, anti-seizure medicines, blood thinners or rifampin.