Ticagrelor (Brilinta) is a novel antiplatelet agent with ticagrelor as its active ingredient. By reversibly inhibiting the P2Y12 receptor, it effectively blocks ADP-induced platelet aggregation. This medication plays a crucial role in antithrombotic therapy for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and old myocardial infarction.

What are the Side Effects of Ticagrelor (Brilinta)?

Bleeding-Related Reactions

Subcutaneous hemorrhage (incidence: 11.9%).

Epistaxis (incidence: 4.7%).

Hemorrhage (incidence: 3.1%).

Bleeding at puncture sites (incidence: 2.6%).

Hematuria (incidence: 2.3%).

Other Systemic Reactions

Hyperuricemia (incidence: 1% to < 10%).

Increased serum creatinine (incidence: 0.1% to < 1%).

Pruritus, rash (frequency unknown).

Severe Side Effects of Ticagrelor (Brilinta)

Severe Bleeding Events

Intracranial hemorrhage (e.g., cerebral hemorrhage) (incidence: 1%).

Gastrointestinal hemorrhage (incidence: 3.6%).

Intraocular hemorrhage, vitreous hemorrhage (incidence: 0.01% to < 0.1%).

Retroperitoneal hemorrhage (incidence: 0.01% to < 0.1%).

Allergic Reactions

Anaphylactic reactions (frequency unknown).

Angioedema (frequency unknown).

Cardiac System Abnormalities

High-grade atrioventricular block (frequency unknown).

Bradyarrhythmias (e.g., sinus arrest) (frequency unknown).

Precautions for Ticagrelor (Brilinta)

Contraindicated Populations

Patients with bleeding (e.g., intracranial hemorrhage, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, urinary tract hemorrhage, hemoptysis, vitreous hemorrhage).

Patients with a history of intracranial hemorrhage.

Patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment.

Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any component of this medication.

Patients currently taking strong CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., itraconazole, voriconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir).

Patients currently taking strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampicin, rifabutin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital).

Medication Monitoring Requirements

Bleeding Symptoms: Closely monitor for any signs of abnormal bleeding.

Respiratory System: Watch for symptoms such as dyspnea.

Renal Function: Regularly check indicators such as creatinine.

Uric Acid Levels: Monitor for the development of hyperuricemia.

Key Patient Education Points

Tablets in PTP (Press-Through Package) blisters must be removed from the blister before administration to prevent accidental ingestion, which may cause severe complications such as esophageal mucosal perforation.

Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as abnormal bleeding or dyspnea occur.

Avoid missing doses during treatment. If a dose is forgotten, take the next scheduled dose as usual; do not take a double dose at one time.