TICAGRELOR

Written By:P. Thirumal ReddyB. Pharm Reviewed By:Dr. Tejashwin AdigaMBBS

Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:31 AM (IST)

TICAGRELOR

Background and Date of approval TICAGRELOR

Ticagrelor is an antiplatelet medication developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved on 20 July 2011, for treating acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Uses of TICAGRELOR

Ticagrelor is used to prevent blood clots in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), including unstable angina or myocardial infarction (heart attack).

How is TICAGRELOR administered?

Ticagrelor is a prescription medicine available as a tablet in two doses, Ticagrelor 60mg and Ticagrelor 90mg. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.

Side Effects of TICAGRELOR

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Ticagrelor are headache, indigestion, nausea, constipation, rash, itching, pain and swelling in the joints, blurred vision, bleeding gums, and bruising. Some serious side effects also include shortness of breath, blood clotting problem, fainting, and bleeding (red or black stools, coughing up or vomiting with blood, red, pink, or brown urine).

Warnings

Ticagrelor is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to other ingredients in it. If you are scheduled for surgery (including dental work), it is important to inform your doctor. Due to the increased risk of bleeding associated with this drug, your physician may advise you to stop taking the medication five days prior to the surgery. If you develop irregular breathing patterns such as speeding up, slowing down, or experiencing short pauses in breathing, it is recommended to consult your doctor for further evaluation.

Precautions

Ticagrelor is not recommended during pregnancy or if there is a possibility of becoming pregnant. It is advised for women to use appropriate contraceptive measures to prevent pregnancy while using this medication. If you are breastfeeding, it's important to consult with your physician before taking this drug. This drug is not recommended for children and adults under 18 years of age.

Word of Advice

Since Ticagrelor affects platelet production, it's essential to take precautions to avoid injuries and bleeding. Be cautious when engaging in activities that may increase your risk of injury, and report any unusual bleeding or bruising to your physician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.

How does Ticagrelor work?

Ticagrelor works by inhibiting platelet activation and aggregation. It specifically blocks a receptor called P2Y12 on platelets, which prevents them from sticking together and forming blood clots. This helps maintain blood flow and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with ACS.

Q2.

How is Ticagrelor taken?

Ticagrelor is taken orally in tablet form. The usual recommended dose for ACS patients is 180 mg as a loading dose, followed by 90 mg twice daily. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Q3.

What are the common side effects of Ticagrelor?

Common side effects of Ticagrelor may include bleeding, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any signs of bleeding, such as prolonged or excessive bleeding from cuts, blood in urine or stool, or unexplained bruising.

Q4.

Are there any drug interactions with Ticagrelor?

Ticagrelor may interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions that may affect the safety or efficacy of this drug.

Q5.

Is it ok if I miss a dose of Ticagrelor?

If you miss a dose of Ticagrelor, take it as soon as you remember and then continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose unless advised by your healthcare provider.

References

AstraZeneca UK Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on Aug 2022] [ Accessed on 17th July 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5767.pdf
Sohita Dhillon; Ticagrelor: a review of its use in adults with acute coronary syndromes; American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs: drugs, devices and other interventions; Published on Feb 2015; Accessed on 17th July 2023; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25672642/
Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Blood coagulation and anticoagulant, fibrinolytic and antiplatelet drugs, 12th edition, 2011, 871.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.

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