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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ticagrelor (Brilinta)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ticagrelor, or if you have:

• severe liver disease;
• any active bleeding;
• stomach ulcer or bleeding; or
• a history of bleeding in the brain (such as from a head injury).

To make sure you can safely take ticagrelor, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• liver disease;
• asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder) or other breathing problem;
• a history of stomach ulcer or colon polyps;
• a history of stroke; or
• a history of bleeding or blood clotting disorder.

Ticagrelor may cause you to bleed more easily, especially if you have:

• a recent surgery or bleeding injury;
• a disease affecting the blood vessels in your brain;
• a history of stroke;
• a history of bleeding problems;
• a history of stomach or intestinal bleeding; or
• if you are 65 or older.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether ticagrelor will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether ticagrelor passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using ticagrelor.

How should I take ticagrelor (Brilinta)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Ticagrelor should be taken together with aspirin. Follow your doctor's instructions about how much aspirin you should take.

Ticagrelor can be taken with or without food. Take the medicine at the same time each day.

Because ticagrelor keeps your blood from coagulating (clotting) to prevent unwanted blood clots, this medicine can also make it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury. Contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if you have any bleeding that will not stop.

If you need surgery or dental work, tell the surgeon or dentist ahead of time that you are using ticagrelor. You may need to stop using the medicine for at least 5 days before having surgery, to prevent excessive bleeding. Follow your doctor's instructions and start taking ticagrelor again as soon as possible.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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