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Introduction About BRILINTA 90MG TABLET

Brilinta 90mg Tablet is a prescription medication used to reduce blood clots in individuals who have had a heart attack or are at risk of stroke. It works by inhibiting platelets, thus reducing the risk of clot formation in the blood vessels.

Your doctor may also prescribe aspirin, an additional antiplatelet medication, alongside Brilinta 90mg Tablet. You can take Brilinta with or without food, and it is important to take it consistently at the same time each day. Continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you feel fine. Stopping it could raise your risk of having another heart attack or stroke.

Common side effect of this medication includes headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, dyspnea (breathlessness) and bleeding. If you cut or injure yourself, it might take longer than normal for the bleeding to stop. These bleeding episodes are typically mild and should resolve on their own. Mild breathlessness caused by this medication generally improves with ongoing management. However, inform your doctor if the bleeding continues or if the breathlessness becomes more severe or does not improve.

Brilinta 90mg Tablet may not be appropriate for certain individuals. Avoid taking it if you are experiencing bleeding anywhere in the body, such as from a stomach ulcer or internal bleeding in the brain. It is also not recommended for those with liver conditions. Be sure to inform your doctor about any such problems before taking this medication.

Uses Of BRILINTA 90MG TABLET

Blood clots

Benefits of BRILINTA 90MG TABLET

Reduces Risk of Heart Attack: Brilinta helps to reduce the risk of heart attacks in individuals with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
Reduce Stroke: It significantly lowers the chance of stroke in people at high risk, such as those with heart disease.
Improves Blood Circulation: By reducing blood clots, Brilinta promotes better blood circulation, reducing the chances of blockages in arteries.
Fast Action: Brilinta begins working quickly to prevent clot formation, which can be critical in emergency situations.

How BRILINTA 90MG TABLET Works

Brilinta 90mg works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which helps reduce blood clots from forming. It is an antiplatelet medication that selectively and reversibly binds to the P2Y12 receptor on platelets, blocking the action of ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and thereby reducing platelet activation and aggregation. This effect helps reduce cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes in patients with a history of acute coronary syndrome or those undergoing procedures like stent placement. By reducing clot formation, Brilinta lowers the risk of further complications related to blood clots in the arteries.

How to use BRILINTA 90MG TABLET

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the exact dosage. Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage for optimal results. Never adjust the dosage without your doctor’s approval. If you feel the medication is not working or experience side effects, consult your doctor immediately.

How to Take Brilinta 90mg Tablet?

Typically, it is taken once or twice a day with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medication.
For best results, take the tablet at the same time each day.

What if I forgot to take BRILINTA 90MG TABLET

For a Once-Daily Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose, do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
For a Twice-Daily Dose: If you miss one dose, take it as soon as possible unless it is close to the time for your next dose. Do not double up doses to make up for the missed one.

Overdose

If you accidentally take more than the prescribed dose of Brilinta, contact your doctor immediately. Taking too much may increase the risk of bleeding.

Side Effects Of BRILINTA 90MG TABLET

Like all medicines, Brilinta 90mg Tablet may cause certain side effects in some individuals, although not everybody gets them.

The most common side effects of taking Brilinta 90mg Tablet are:

Headache
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Dyspnea (breathlessness)
Bleeding

When to consult your doctor?

Severe bleeding symptoms such as unusual bruising, prolonged or severe bleeding from cuts, nosebleeds, or bleeding gums, blood in urine or stool, or coughing up blood
Respiratory problems symptoms such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, or feeling out of breath
Heart problems symptoms such as slow heart rate, dizziness, fainting, or chest pain
Severe Allergic Reactions symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, rash, itching, and severe dizziness
Liver problems symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, unusual fatigue, or abdominal pain
Severe Dizziness or Fainting

How To Manage Side Effects

Dizziness Or Drowsiness

Sit or Lie Down: If you feel dizzy, sit down, or lie down immediately to prevent falling. Keep your head still and close your eyes if needed.
Hydrate: Dehydration can cause dizziness, so drink water or electrolyte-replenishing drinks like sports drinks.
Avoid Sudden Movements: When standing or sitting, do so slowly to avoid triggering dizziness. Take your time when getting up.
Eat Small, Regular Meals: Low blood sugar can cause dizziness, so eat small meals throughout the day and avoid skipping meals.
Fresh Air: Sometimes dizziness can be alleviated by taking slow, deep breaths in a well-ventilated area.

Headache

Rest in a Quiet, Dark Room: Find a calm, quiet space away from bright lights and loud noises. Lie down and close your eyes.
Hydrate: Dehydration can contribute to headaches, so drink plenty of water.
Apply a Cold or Warm Compress: A cold pack on your forehead may reduce pain, or a warm compress on your neck or shoulders can relieve tension.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if appropriate for you. Follow the recommended dosage.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching can help reduce stress and alleviate headache symptoms.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Contraindicated

Brilinta 90mg Tablet is not recommended for use in pregnant women. It is important to consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Breastfeeding

Contraindicated

Brilinta 90mg Tablet is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. It is important to consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

Do not drive or operate machines if you experience dizziness or confusion or vertigo or syncope.

Alcohol

Consult your doctor

Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Brilinta 90mg Tablet.

Kidney

Consult your doctor

Brilinta 90mg Tablet is not recommended for use in patients with severe kidney problems and should be used with caution in patients with mild or moderate kidney problems. Consult your doctor before taking it.

Liver

Consult your doctor

Brilinta 90mg Tablet is not recommended for use in patients with severe liver disease and should be used with caution in patients with mild or moderate liver disease. Consult your doctor before taking it.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to Ticagrelor or any other ingredients of this medicine.

Lungs

Use with Caution

Brilinta 90mg Tablet should be used with caution in patients with asthma or other lung problems or breathing difficulties. It is important to consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Heart Disease

Use with Caution

Brilinta 90mg Tablet should be used with caution in patients with abnormal heart rate. Consult your doctor before taking it.

Use In Pediatrics

Contraindicated

Brilinta 90mg Tablet is not recommended for use in children and adolescents (aged below 18 years). Consult your pediatrician before giving it.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

Brilinta 90mg Tablet should be used with caution in elderly patients (aged 65 years and above). Consult your doctor before taking it.

Other Warnings for BRILINTA 90MG TABLET

Before taking Brilinta 90mg Tablet, inform your doctor if you:

Have a history of stroke
Scheduled for surgery or a dental procedure
Suffer from hyperuricemia (increased uric acid levels in blood)

Who should not take [GBNKEYWORD

Brilinta 90mg Tablet is not recommended for use if you:

Active bleeding, such as bleeding in the brain, stomach, or intestines
History of bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage)

Safety Advice

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the exact dosage.
Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage.
It is important to follow the prescribed dosage for optimal results.
Never adjust the dosage without your doctor’s approval.
If you feel the medication is not working or experience side effects, consult your doctor immediately.
Typically, it is taken once or twice a day with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medication.
For best results, take the tablet at the same time each day.
Certain medications, such as aspirin (particularly at higher doses), other blood thinners, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can interact with Brilinta and raise the risk of bleeding.
Brilinta can cause shortness of breath in some individuals. Make sure to stay hydrated and contact your doctor if you experience any difficulty breathing.
Discontinuing Brilinta abruptly can raise the risk of a heart attack or other severe cardiovascular problems. It is important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication plan.
There are not any specific foods or drinks you need to avoid while taking Brilinta, but grapefruit and grapefruit juice may raise the drug's levels in the blood, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects.
Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the drug and manage any side effects. Blood tests might be needed to assess your platelet count and overall health.
Let your doctor know If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Diet and Lifestyle Advice

What are some lifestyle tips, including dietary habits, exercise routines, and other preventive measures, that can complement the use of Brilinta for managing cardiovascular health and preventing heart attacks and strokes?

Category	Tips	Purpose/Benefit
Dietary Habits
1. Heart-Healthy Diet	Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (like fish, poultry, beans), and healthy fats (olive oil, avocados).	These foods provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and maintain healthy blood vessels.
2. Limit Saturated Fats	Avoid foods rich in saturated fats (butter, fatty meats, full-fat dairy products). Opt for plant-based fats like olive oil, nuts, and seeds.	Saturated fats can raise cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
3. Reduce Sodium Intake	Limit processed and salty foods; aim for less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day. Consider using herbs and spices for flavor.	High sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.
4. Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids	Include fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) and flaxseeds in the diet. Alternatively, consider omega-3 supplements.	Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and help lower the risk of cardiovascular events.
5. Stay Hydrated	Drink plenty of water throughout the day and limit sugary drinks.	Proper hydration supports optimal heart function and overall health. Avoid sugary drinks that can contribute to weight gain and diabetes.
Exercise Routines
1. Regular Cardiovascular Exercise	Engage in aerobic activities like walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling for at least 150 minutes per week.	Regular cardiovascular exercise strengthens the heart, improves blood circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight.
2. Strength Training	Include strength training exercises 2-3 times a week, targeting all major muscle groups.	Strength training increases metabolism, improves muscle mass, and supports overall heart health by reducing body fat.
3. Flexibility & Balance Exercises	Incorporate yoga or Pilates to improve flexibility and balance, 2-3 times a week.	These exercises help reduce stress, improve circulation, and enhance flexibility and posture, all of which support heart health.
4. Daily Physical Activity	Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or cycle for short trips, and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise daily.	Incorporating more movement into daily activities can reduce sedentary behavior, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Preventive Measures
1. Manage Stress	Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, deep breathing, or relaxation exercises.	Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure and contribute to heart disease. Managing stress can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
2. Regular Health Checkups	Schedule regular visits to your healthcare provider for blood pressure checks, cholesterol screening, and blood tests.	Monitoring key health metrics allows for early detection and better management of heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol.
3. Quit Smoking	If you smoke, seek help to quit. Use smoking cessation programs or medications, if necessary.	Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Quitting significantly reduces these risks.
4. Limit Alcohol Intake	Limit alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.	Excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure, increase weight, and damage the heart over time. Moderation is key.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight	Aim for a healthy body mass index (BMI) by combining healthy eating with regular physical activity.	Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on the heart, lowers blood pressure, and helps regulate cholesterol levels.
6. Adequate Sleep	Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a restful environment.	Poor sleep is linked to higher blood pressure, inflammation, and increased risk of heart disease. Proper rest is essential for cardiovascular health.

Drug - Drug interaction

Inform your physician if you are taking any of the following medicine before taking Brilinta 90mg Tablet:

1. Antiplatelet Agents

Interactions: Combining Brilinta (Ticagrelor) with other antiplatelet drugs like aspirin or clopidogrel can increase the risk of bleeding, as both medications inhibit platelet aggregation.
Effects: Increased risk of bleeding, easy bruising, prolonged bleeding time, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Management: Regular monitoring of bleeding parameters (e.g., hemoglobin levels, platelet count). Avoid combining multiple antiplatelet medications unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider. If combined, ensure lower doses of each medication and close clinical monitoring for any signs of bleeding.

2. Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors

Interactions: Medications that inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin) can increase the concentration of Ticagrelor in the bloodstream.
Effects: Higher Ticagrelor levels can lead to an increased risk of side effects like bleeding, bradycardia, and shortness of breath.
Management: Reduce the dose of Ticagrelor or avoid co-administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If co-administration is unavoidable, monitor for signs of excessive bleeding and adjust doses accordingly.

3. Strong CYP3A4 Inducers

Interactions: Drugs that induce CYP3A4 (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, St. John's Wort) may lower the effectiveness of Ticagrelor by decreasing its blood concentration.
Effects: Reduced effectiveness of Ticagrelor, leading to a potential risk of clot formation, which may result in stroke or heart attack.
Management: Avoid co-administration of Ticagrelor with strong CYP3A4 inducers. If necessary, alternative medications with less interaction potential should be considered.

4. Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin, Apixaban)

Interactions: Combining Brilinta with oral anticoagulants can lead to a significant increase in the risk of bleeding.
Effects: Severe bleeding complications, such as internal bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, or hemorrhagic stroke.
Management: Close monitoring of coagulation parameters (INR for warfarin, bleeding time for direct anticoagulants). Careful dose adjustment or alternative therapies may be necessary. Monitor for any signs of bleeding and manage accordingly.

5. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Interactions: Concomitant use of Ticagrelor with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers.
Effects: Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, or perforation.
Management: Consider using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to protect the stomach lining, and avoid long-term use of NSAIDs unless absolutely necessary. Regular gastrointestinal monitoring is advised.

6. P-glycoprotein Inhibitors

Interactions: Drugs that inhibit P-glycoprotein (e.g., digoxin, cyclosporine) can increase Ticagrelor levels, leading to a higher risk of bleeding.
Effects: Excessive Ticagrelor concentrations may lead to adverse effects like bleeding, bradycardia, and respiratory distress.
Management: Monitor closely for signs of bleeding and adjust the dosage of Brilinta if needed. In some cases, avoiding P-glycoprotein inhibitors may be necessary.

7. Alcohol

Interactions: Alcohol consumption while taking Brilinta can exacerbate the risk of bleeding and increase the chances of dizziness or fainting.
Effects: Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, dizziness, fainting, or excessive drowsiness.
Management: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption. If alcohol intake cannot be avoided, be vigilant for any signs of bleeding or unusual side effects.

Drug - Food interaction

1.Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice

Interactions: Grapefruit can inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme, leading to an increased concentration of Ticagrelor in the bloodstream.
Effects: Increased risk of bleeding, dizziness, and other Ticagrelor-related side effects.
Management: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during Brilinta therapy to prevent significant drug interactions.

Synopsis

Drug	:	Ticagrelor
Pharmacological Category	:	Antiplatelet agent, P2Y12 receptor antagonist
Therapeutic Indication	:	Blood clots
Dosage Forms	:	Tablet

More Information

01.Product Comparison

a) Brilinta Vs Plavix

Aspect	Brilinta (Ticagrelor) 90mg	Plavix (Clopidogrel)
Mechanism of Action	Reversible P2Y12 receptor inhibitor that prevents platelet aggregation.	Irreversible P2Y12 receptor inhibitor, reduces platelet aggregation.
Onset of Action	Faster onset (1-3 hours)	Slower onset (2-6 hours)
Duration of Action	Shorter duration (approximately 12 hours)	Longer duration (approximately 5-7 days)
Metabolism	Primarily metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4 and CYP3A5.	Metabolized in the liver by CYP2C19.
Effect on Platelet Function	More potent and consistent inhibition of platelet aggregation.	Less potent and may have variable effect due to genetic differences.
Indications	Acute coronary syndrome (ACS), following heart attacks or stenting.	ACS, stroke prevention, peripheral artery disease.
Common Side Effects	Shortness of breath, bleeding, bradycardia, elevated uric acid.	Bleeding, bruising, rash, diarrhea.
Risk of Bleeding	Moderate risk of bleeding, though less than some other anticoagulants.	Moderate risk of bleeding.
Required Dosing	Twice daily (typically 90mg twice a day)	Once daily (75mg dose)
Food and Drug Interactions	Interacts with CYP3A4 inhibitors, which may require dose adjustments.	Interactions with CYP2C19 inhibitors, may require dose adjustments.
Efficacy in ACS	Proven to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in ACS.	Effective but may not be as potent in reducing cardiovascular events in ACS.
Reversibility	Reversible platelet inhibition, allowing a quicker return of normal platelet function.	Irreversible platelet inhibition, takes longer to recover normal platelet function.
Special Considerations	Not recommended in patients with severe liver disease or significant bleeding risk.	Lower efficacy in patients with poor CYP2C19 metabolism.

Why Brilinta (Ticagrelor) 90mg stands out:

Faster Onset: Brilinta starts working faster, which is especially beneficial in acute situations like heart attacks.
Reversible Inhibition: Brilinta’s reversible action allows a faster return to normal platelet function compared to Plavix’s irreversible effect.
More Potent: Brilinta is generally more potent and consistent in preventing platelet aggregation, which leads to better clinical outcomes in some patients.
Lower Risk of Clopidogrel Resistance: Brilinta avoids the genetic variability of Clopidogrel, which may be less effective in some individuals due to their genetic makeup.
Dual Antiplatelet Therapy: Brilinta is preferred in certain dual antiplatelet therapy regimens post-ACS or stent placement due to its superior outcomes.

b) Brilinta 90mg tablet Vs Ecotrin

Feature	Brilinta 90mg Tablet	Ecotrin (Aspirin)
Active Ingredient	Ticagrelor	Acetylsalicylic Acid (Aspirin)
Class of Drug	Antiplatelet agent (P2Y12 receptor inhibitor)	Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Primary Indication	Prevents blood clots in patients with acute coronary syndrome or those with a history of heart attack	Reduces pain, inflammation, and prevents blood clots
Mechanism of Action	Inhibits platelet aggregation by blocking the P2Y12 receptor on platelets	Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX), reducing thromboxane A2 production, thereby preventing platelet aggregation
Formulation	Oral tablet (90mg)	Oral tablet (various doses, typically 81mg, 325mg)
Onset of Action	Fast-acting, with peak effects within 1.5 hours	Slow onset, with effects occurring within 30-60 minutes
Duration of Effect	Longer duration of platelet inhibition (up to 5 days)	Effects last a few hours, depending on the dose
Efficacy in Cardiovascular Events	Highly effective in preventing heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events in high-risk patients	Effective for general clot prevention, but less potent in preventing recurrent cardiovascular events
Side Effects	Higher risk of bleeding, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, bradycardia	GI irritation, ulcers, bleeding, tinnitus (with high doses)
Specific Indication for ACS	Indicated for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients (e.g., after heart attack or angioplasty)	Not specifically indicated for ACS; more general clot prevention
Patient Group	Used in high-risk cardiovascular patients, including those with ACS or a history of heart attack	Commonly used in general cardiovascular prevention and pain relief, suitable for a broader patient group
Bleeding Risk	Higher bleeding risk due to more potent platelet inhibition	Moderate bleeding risk, lower than Brilinta
Reversible Antiplatelet Effect	Yes, effect is reversible upon discontinuation within a short period	No, effect persists for the duration of platelet life (7-10 days)
Drug Interactions	Stronger drug interactions due to CYP3A4 metabolism (e.g., statins, antifungals)	Interactions with other blood thinners, certain antihypertensives, and alcohol
FDA Approval for Stroke Prevention	Yes, indicated for reducing the risk of stroke in high-risk patients	Not directly indicated for stroke prevention (primarily used for cardiovascular prevention)

Why Brilinta 90mg Tablet Stands Out:

More Potent Platelet Inhibition: Brilinta offers a more potent and sustained effect in preventing platelet aggregation, especially in high-risk cardiovascular patients, making it more effective in preventing heart attacks and strokes in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients.
Faster Action & Reversible Effect: Brilinta acts faster and its effects are reversible upon discontinuation, providing more flexibility in managing bleeding risks.
Specifically Tailored for ACS: Brilinta is specifically indicated for the prevention of recurrent cardiovascular events in ACS patients, whereas Ecotrin (aspirin) is more general-purpose in cardiovascular prevention and pain relief.

02. What are some alternative medications or lifestyle changes to manage heart disease if Brilinta is not suitable due to medical reasons, such as options like aspirin or clopidogrel?

Condition/Reason	Alternative Medication	Mechanism of Action	Effectiveness	Lifestyle Changes	Additional Notes
Inability to tolerate Brilinta	Aspirin	Antiplatelet, inhibits COX-1 enzyme to reduce clotting	Widely used, effective in preventing heart attacks and strokes	Healthy diet (low-sodium, low-fat), regular exercise, stress management	First-line treatment for many patients, well-tolerated by most
Increased bleeding risk with Brilinta	Clopidogrel (Plavix)	Antiplatelet, inhibits ADP receptors to prevent platelets from clumping	Effective alternative, often used for patients who cannot tolerate Brilinta	Smoking cessation, weight management, alcohol moderation	Often combined with aspirin in dual antiplatelet therapy
Chronic Kidney Disease	Prasugrel (Effient)	Antiplatelet, similar to Brilinta, inhibits ADP receptors	More effective in preventing major cardiovascular events, but may not be suitable in some kidney conditions	Blood pressure management, sodium restriction	Avoid in patients with a history of stroke or TIA
Gastric issues or ulcers	Dipyridamole	Antiplatelet, increases the effects of adenosine to inhibit platelet aggregation	Less commonly used but can be effective in stroke prevention	Low-stress activities, proper hydration, sleep hygiene	Often used in combination with aspirin for stroke prevention
Risk of thromboembolism after surgery	Warfarin (Coumadin)	Anticoagulant, inhibits vitamin K-dependent clotting factors	Very effective in preventing blood clots but requires monitoring	Regular physical activity, balanced diet, avoiding smoking	Requires frequent INR monitoring and dose adjustments
High cardiovascular risk, low tolerance to antiplatelets	Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin, Simvastatin)	Lipid-lowering medication, reduces LDL cholesterol to prevent plaque buildup	Can reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death	Heart-healthy diet, weight loss, aerobic exercise	Statins reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and improve overall cardiovascular health

FAQs About BRILINTA 90MG TABLET

Q: What is Brilinta 90mg tablet used for?

A: Brilinta 90mg is a prescription medication used primarily to reduce blood clots in patients who have experienced a heart attack, unstable angina, or have certain types of heart disease. It is also used to reduce the risk of future heart attacks or strokes in patients with a history of cardiovascular issues.

Q: How does Brilinta 90mg work to reduce heart attacks and strokes?

A: Brilinta works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which reduce blood clots from forming. It specifically blocks the P2Y12 receptor on platelets, reducing the ability of platelets to stick together and form clots that could lead to heart attacks or strokes.

Q: Is Brilinta 90mg a blood thinner?

A: Although Brilinta 90mg is often referred to as a "blood thinner," it is not a traditional anticoagulant. It is an antiplatelet drug that reduce platelets in the blood from sticking together and forming clots, which helps to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Q: Can Brilinta 90mg be taken with alcohol?

A: It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Brilinta 90mg. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding and may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. Always consult your doctor before consuming alcohol while on Brilinta.

Q: Is Brilinta 90mg available over-the-counter or by prescription?

A: Brilinta 90mg is available only by prescription. It is a prescription-only medication that must be prescribed by a doctor based on your medical condition and history.

Q: How should Brilinta 90mg be stored?

A: Brilinta 90mg should be stored at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medication in its original packaging and out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom.

Q: Is it safe to buy Brilinta 90mg online?

A: It is important to buy Brilinta 90mg only from a reputable pharmacy. Purchasing medications online without a prescription or from unverified sources may be unsafe and illegal. Always consult your doctor before buying medication online.

Q: How long does Brilinta 90mg stay in your system?

A: Brilinta 90mg typically stays in your system for about 48 hours after the last dose. However, its effects on platelet function can last longer. The medication has a half-life of around 7 hours, but it may take a few days for it to be completely eliminated from your body.

Q: Can I stop taking Brilinta 90mg suddenly?

A: Do not stop taking Brilinta 90mg suddenly without consulting your doctor. Abruptly discontinuing the medication can increase the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke. Your doctor will guide you on how to safely stop or adjust your dosage.

Q: Can Brilinta 90mg be used with other medications?

A: Brilinta 90mg can interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, aspirin, and certain drugs used for epilepsy or fungal infections. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies, to avoid potential drug interactions.

Q: What should I do if I am planning surgery while on Brilinta?

A: If you are planning surgery, inform your doctor that you are taking Brilinta. You may need to stop taking the medication for a period before the surgery to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding. Your doctor will provide specific instructions regarding when to discontinue Brilinta prior to surgery.

Q: Is Brilinta safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

A: Brilinta should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is not recommended during breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk and affect the baby. Always discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking Brilinta.

Q: What are the long-term effects of using Brilinta?

A: Long-term use of Brilinta may increase the risk of bleeding and other side effects. However, for many patients, the benefits of reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes outweigh the potential risks. Regular monitoring by a doctor is important to ensure that it remains safe and effective.

References

1. Keith A.A. Fox, Harvey D. White, Bernard J. Gersh and Lionel H. Opie. Antithrombotic Agents: Platelet Inhibitors, Acute Anticoagulants, Fibrinolytics and Chronic Anticoagulants. Drugs for the heart. 8th Edition. 2013. Page-351-352.

2. Gerald G. Briggs, Roger K. Freeman. T. A reference guide to fetal and neonatal risk: Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation, Tenth Edition. 2015. Page – 3799-3800.

3. Jolanta M Siller-Matula, Bernd Jilma. Ticagrelor: from discovery to Phase III clinical trial. NIH National Library of Medicine, National center of Biotechnology information. November 2010. [Accessed 4th April 2025]

4. Dominick J. Angiolillo, George D. Dengas. Ticagrelor With Aspirin or Alone in High-Risk Patients After Coronary Intervention – TWILIGHT. American college of cardiology. March 2020. [Accessed 4th April 2025]

5. AstraZeneca AB; Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC) [Revised on September 2019] [Accessed 4th April 2025]

6. AstraZeneca AB; Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC) [Revised on September 2019] [Accessed 4th April 2025]

Author Details

Written By Dr. Karthikeyan Rajagopal - M.Pharm (Pharmacology)

Reviewed For Accuracy By Dr. Thamada Manikanta Praveen - MBBS, MD (General Medicine)

Last updated on 04 Apr 2025 | 05:05 PM(IST)