Brilinta Uses and Dosage

Uses of Brilinta

Brilinta, also known by its generic name ticagrelor, is an oral antiplatelet prescription medication used to prevent and treat heart attacks and strokes caused by blood clots.​ It works by preventing platelets in the blood from sticking together and forming clots. Brilinta is commonly prescribed to adults with a history of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), heart attacks, or coronary artery disease.​ This medication is often taken with a low-dose aspirin to enhance its effectiveness in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.​

Other uses of Brilinta include reducing the risk of stent thrombosis in patients who have received stents for ACS treatment and decreasing the chance of a first heart attack or stroke in individuals with coronary artery disease.​ It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and recommendations provided by healthcare professionals to maximize the benefits of Brilinta and minimize the risks of potential side effects.​

Brilinta Dosage Recommendations

When using Brilinta (ticagrelor) for the prevention of cardiovascular events, the recommended dosage regimen may vary based on the specific medical condition.​ For acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients, a loading dose of 180 mg is typically administered followed by a maintenance dose of 90 mg twice daily for the first year. After the initial year٫ the maintenance dose can be reduced to 60 mg twice daily.​

Patients with coronary artery disease deemed high risk for cardiovascular events can also benefit from Brilinta. In this case, the recommended dosage is 60 mg twice daily along with a daily maintenance dose of aspirin between 75-100 mg.​

For individuals who have experienced an acute ischemic stroke or a high-risk transient ischemic attack (TIA), the maintenance dose is typically 90 mg twice daily for up to 30 days, coupled with a loading dose of aspirin (300-325 mg) and a daily maintenance dose of 75-100 mg.​

It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations regarding Brilinta usage and any specific precautions based on individual health factors.​

Side Effects and Cautions

Some common side effects of Brilinta (ticagrelor) may include bleeding, shortness of breath (dyspnea), dizziness, nausea, and rash.​ It is important to be aware of potential side effects and seek medical advice if you experience any concerning symptoms while taking Brilinta.​

Individuals with a history of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) or active pathological bleeding, such as peptic ulcers, should avoid using Brilinta due to the increased risk of bleeding. Additionally, Brilinta inhibits platelet function, which can lead to a higher risk of bleeding events.​

If you experience bleeding while taking Brilinta, it is essential to manage the bleeding without discontinuing the medication, as stopping Brilinta suddenly can increase the risk of subsequent cardiovascular events. Before undergoing any surgery, including dental procedures, inform your healthcare provider about your Brilinta use to receive appropriate guidance on medication management.​

Other cautions involve potential risks of respiratory side effects like dyspnea and bradyarrhythmias, particularly in patients with specific cardiac conditions.​ It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and guidelines provided by your healthcare provider to mitigate the risks associated with Brilinta use and ensure optimal treatment outcomes.​