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What is Brilinta (ticagrelor) used for?

Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on Feb 17, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Brilinta (ticagrelor) is used to stop new blood clots forming and therefore lower the risk of having a cardiovascular (CV) event or stroke. It is used for people that have medical conditions that increase their chance of a CV event or stroke.

Brilinta is specifically used for these medical conditions:

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) or a History of Myocardial Infarction (MI):

Coronary Artery Disease but No Prior Stroke or Myocardial Infarction:

Acute Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA):


Should you take aspirin with Brilinta?

References

Read next

How long do I have to take Brilinta after a stent or heart attack?

Brilinta is typically used for 6 to 12 months, or longer, after a stent or heart attack. Follow your doctor’s orders when taking Brilinta. It is given with low-dose aspirin to help prevent blood clots. If you stop taking Brilinta too soon, it can increase your risk of a heart attack, stroke or death. Continue reading

What foods should I eat or avoid when taking Brilinta?

Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking Brilinta (ticagrelor). Grapefruit juice can inhibit (block) one of the enzymes (3A4) needed to break down Brilinta for excretion from the body. Drinking grapefruit juice with Brilinta may increase the antiplatelet effect of your medicine and increase the risk for bleeding. Continue reading

Can you drink alcohol while taking Brilinta?

There is no reported drug-drug interaction in the manufacturer's product label between alcohol (ethanol) and Brilinta. However, as a precaution, you should avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Brilinta and aspirin. Drinking alcohol while you are taking aspirin can increase the risk of stomach ulcers or bleeding. Continue reading

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