Ticagrelor, like other antiplatelet agents, can cause significant, sometimes fatal, bleeding.
Do not use ticagrelor in patients with active pathological bleeding or a history of intracranial hemorrhage.
Do not start ticagrelor in patients undergoing urgent coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
If possible, manage bleeding without discontinuing ticagrelor. Stopping ticagrelor increases the risk of subsequent cardiovascular events.
Maintenance doses of aspirin >100 mg daily reduce the effectiveness of ticagrelor and should be avoided.
Dosage guidance:
Safety: Use with caution or avoid use in patients at increased risk for bradycardic events.
Clinical considerations: In patients who require concomitant therapeutic anticoagulation, antiplatelet selection and/or duration of therapy may differ in order to balance risks for thrombosis and bleeding (Ref). Concurrent aspirin maintenance dose should not exceed 100 mg/day.
Acute coronary syndrome:
ST-elevation myocardial infarction:
Percutaneous coronary intervention, primary:
Loading dose: Oral: 180 mg once as early as possible after diagnosis in combination with aspirin and a parenteral anticoagulant; followed by maintenance dose (Ref).
Maintenance dose: Oral:
First 12 months after diagnosis: 90 mg twice daily beginning ~6 to 12 hours after the initial loading dose in combination with aspirin (Ref).
After 12 months from diagnosis: Reduce maintenance dose to 60 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin; in selected patients with ongoing high ischemic risk, may continue 90 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin. Also see "Duration of Therapy" below (Ref).
Post-fibrinolysis:
Note: If fibrinolysis is chosen for reperfusion, it is recommended to administer clopidogrel (instead of ticagrelor) in combination with the fibrinolytic, aspirin, and a parenteral anticoagulant as soon as possible after diagnosis; subsequently, in patients <75 years of age, may transition from clopidogrel to ticagrelor (Ref).
Loading dose: Oral: 180 mg once ≥12 hours after administration of fibrinolytic therapy (regardless of whether clopidogrel was co-administered at the time of diagnosis); followed by maintenance dose (Ref).
Maintenance dose: Oral:
First 12 months after diagnosis: 90 mg twice daily beginning ~6 to 12 hours after the initial loading dose in combination with aspirin (Ref).
After 12 months from diagnosis: Reduce maintenance dose to 60 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin; in selected patients with ongoing high ischemic risk, may continue 90 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin. Also see "Duration of Therapy" below (Ref).
No reperfusion:
Loading dose: Oral: 180 mg once as early as possible after diagnosis in combination with aspirin and a parenteral anticoagulant; followed by maintenance dose (Ref).
Maintenance dose: Oral:
First 12 months after diagnosis: 90 mg twice daily beginning ~6 to 12 hours after the initial loading dose in combination with aspirin (Ref).
After 12 months from diagnosis: Reduce maintenance dose to 60 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin; in selected patients with ongoing high ischemic risk, may continue 90 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin. Also see "Duration of Therapy" below (Ref).
Duration of therapy:
Preferred approach: Continue ticagrelor plus aspirin (dual antiplatelet therapy [DAPT]) for ≥12 months unless major bleeding is a concern. For patients at high risk of bleeding or who experience overt bleeding, DAPT for 6 months may be reasonable. If there have been no major bleeding complications within initial 12 months, continuation of DAPT may be considered. Reevaluate the need for DAPT at regular intervals based on bleeding and thrombotic risks. When DAPT is complete, discontinue ticagrelor and continue aspirin indefinitely for secondary prevention (Ref).
Alternative approach in select patients to minimize bleeding events: Ticagrelor in combination with aspirin (DAPT) should be continued for 1 to 3 months after PCI, then discontinue aspirin and continue ticagrelor monotherapy. When ticagrelor is discontinued, restart aspirin for secondary prevention (Ref).
Non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes:
Note: The following dosing recommendations are the same whether reperfusion with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is planned or no reperfusion is planned.
Loading dose: Oral: 180 mg once as early as possible after diagnosis in combination with aspirin and a parenteral anticoagulant; followed by maintenance dose. If coronary angiography is planned soon after diagnosis, it is reasonable to delay the initial loading dose until after coronary anatomy is known (Ref).
Maintenance dose: Oral:
First 12 months after diagnosis: 90 mg twice daily beginning ~6 to 12 hours after the initial loading dose in combination with aspirin (Ref).
After 12 months from diagnosis: Reduce maintenance dose to 60 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin. In selected patients with ongoing high ischemic risk, may continue 90 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin. Also see “Duration of Therapy” below (Ref).
Duration of therapy:
Preferred approach: Continue ticagrelor plus aspirin (DAPT) for ≥12 months unless major bleeding is a concern. For patients at high risk of bleeding or who experience overt bleeding, DAPT for 6 months may be reasonable. If there have been no major bleeding complications within initial 12 months, continuation of DAPT may be considered. Reevaluate the need for DAPT at regular intervals based on bleeding and thrombotic risks. When DAPT is complete, discontinue ticagrelor and continue aspirin indefinitely for secondary prevention (Ref).
Alternative approach in select patients to minimize bleeding events: Ticagrelor in combination with aspirin (DAPT) should be continued for 1 to 3 months after PCI, then discontinue aspirin and continue ticagrelor monotherapy. When ticagrelor is discontinued, restart aspirin for secondary prevention (Ref).
Carotid artery stenting (off-label use):
Percutaneous approach or transcarotid approach:
Loading dose: Oral: 180 mg once in combination with aspirin ≥2 hours before the procedure (Ref).
Maintenance dose: Oral: 90 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin for at least 4 weeks; then discontinue ticagrelor and continue aspirin indefinitely thereafter. In patients with history of neck irradiation, some experts recommend continuing ticagrelor plus aspirin indefinitely (Ref).
Coronary artery disease (stable) and high risk for ischemic cardiovascular events, primary prevention:
Note: Evaluate bleeding and thrombotic risks as well as patient preferences when considering dual antiplatelet therapy versus monotherapy with aspirin for primary prevention. Some experts recommend limiting use of dual antiplatelet therapy to patients with coronary artery disease and diabetes mellitus, at high risk for ischemic cardiovascular events, and at low risk for bleeding (Ref).
Oral: 60 mg twice daily in combination with aspirin; continue ticagrelor and aspirin indefinitely (Ref).
Minor ischemic stroke (based on National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score) or high-risk transient ischemic attack (TIA; based on ABCD2 score):
Note: May consider short-term dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with ticagrelor in combination with aspirin in patients with recent (≤24 hours) minor ischemic stroke or high risk TIA and ipsilateral >30% stenosis of a major intracranial artery. Initiate antiplatelet therapy as soon as possible in the absence of contraindications. If an IV thrombolytic was administered, delay starting antiplatelet therapy for at least 24 hours, but administer as soon as possible thereafter (Ref). Avoid DAPT in patients with hemorrhagic transformation (Ref).
Oral: Initial: 180 mg once in combination with aspirin, followed by 90 mg twice daily, beginning ~6 to 12 hours after initial loading dose, in combination with aspirin for 21 to 30 days. After completion of DAPT, continue long-term single-agent antiplatelet therapy with aspirin (Ref).
Percutaneous coronary intervention for stable ischemic heart disease (off-label use):
Loading dose: Oral: 180 mg once prior to percutaneous coronary intervention in combination with aspirin and a parenteral anticoagulant; followed by a maintenance dose (Ref).
Maintenance dose: Oral: 90 mg twice daily beginning ~12 hours after the initial loading dose in combination with aspirin (Ref).
Duration of therapy: Continue ticagrelor plus aspirin for 1 to 3 months; then discontinue aspirin and continue ticagrelor monotherapy for up to 1 to 2 years. When ticagrelor is discontinued, switch to aspirin for treatment of stable ischemic heart disease (Ref).
Transitioning between P2Y12 inhibitors:
Note: This provides general guidance on transitioning between P2Y12 inhibitors.
Transitioning from another P2Y12 inhibitor to ticagrelor:
Transitioning from clopidogrel:
≤30 days after acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or PCI: Administer ticagrelor 180 mg loading dose once within 24 hours after the last dose of clopidogrel (irrespective of timing of previous clopidogrel dose), followed by 90 mg twice daily beginning 12 hours later (Ref).
>30 days after ACS or PCI: Administer ticagrelor 90 mg twice daily beginning 24 hours after the last dose of clopidogrel (Ref). Note: Some experts administer a ticagrelor 180 mg loading dose once within 24 hours after the last dose of clopidogrel (irrespective of timing of previous clopidogrel dose), followed by 90 mg twice daily beginning 12 hours later (Ref).
Transitioning from prasugrel:
≤30 days after ACS or PCI: Administer ticagrelor 180 mg loading dose once within 24 hours after the last dose of prasugrel (irrespective of timing of previous prasugrel dose), followed by 90 mg twice daily beginning 12 hours later (Ref).
>30 days after ACS or PCI: Administer ticagrelor 90 mg twice daily beginning 24 hours after the last dose of prasugrel (Ref). Note: Some experts administer a ticagrelor 180 mg loading dose once within 24 hours after the last dose of prasugrel (irrespective of timing of previous prasugrel dose), followed by 90 mg twice daily beginning 12 hours later (Ref).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
The renal dosing recommendations are based upon the best available evidence and clinical expertise. Senior Editorial Team: Bruce Mueller, PharmD, FCCP, FASN, FNKF; Jason Roberts, PhD, BPharm (Hons), B App Sc, FSHP, FISAC; Michael Heung, MD, MS.
Altered kidney function: No dosage adjustment necessary for any degree of kidney dysfunction (Ref).
Hemodialysis, intermittent (thrice weekly): Not dialyzed: No supplemental dose or dosage adjustment necessary (Ref). A retrospective analysis of dialysis patients who had undergone percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) showed no difference in cardiovascular end points or bleeding for ticagrelor compared to clopidogrel (Ref); however, patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) are at increased risk for bleeding, with or without antiplatelet therapy (Ref); monitor closely.
Peritoneal dialysis: Unlikely to be dialyzed (highly protein bound): No dosage adjustment necessary (Ref). A retrospective analysis of dialysis patients who had undergone PCI for AMI showed no difference in cardiovascular end points or bleeding for ticagrelor compared to clopidogrel (Ref); however, patients with ESKD are at increased risk for bleeding, with or without antiplatelet therapy (Ref); monitor closely.
CRRT: No dosage adjustment necessary (Ref).
PIRRT (eg, sustained, low-efficiency diafiltration): No dosage adjustment necessary (Ref).
Mild impairment: No dosage adjustment necessary.
Moderate impairment: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling (has not been studied); however, undergoes hepatic metabolism; use caution.
Severe impairment: Avoid use.
Refer to adult dosing.
Ticagrelor may cause hemorrhage, including major hemorrhage. In the PLATO trial, ticagrelor was associated with an increased rate of non-procedure related bleeding, but there was no difference in the rate of overall major bleeding compared with clopidogrel (Ref). In the EUCLID trial, bleeding risk was also similar between patients who received ticagrelor versus patients who received clopidogrel (Ref). In the ISAR-REACT 5 trial, there was no difference in the rate of major bleeding between patients who received ticagrelor versus patients who received prasugrel (Ref). In the THATO trial, ticagrelor in combination with aspirin was associated with an increased risk of severe bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage compared to aspirin monotherapy in those with an acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (Ref). Reports of fatal or severe bleeding, including fatal and nonfatal intracranial bleeding, were rare (Ref). Bleeding should be suspected if the patient becomes hypotensive following recent coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary intervention, coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), or other surgical procedure, even in the absence of overt signs of bleeding. Studies suggest that platelet transfusions are ineffective in reversing the antiplatelet effect of ticagrelor, possibly due to reversible binding to the P2Y12 receptor (Ref).
Onset: Varied; bleeding events occurred at all time points, up to 12 months of follow-up, with bleeding in some instances within 30 days of treatment (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Low body weight (≤65 kg) (Ref)
• Hemoglobin ≤12 g/dL (Ref)
• Chronic kidney disease (CrCl <60 mL/minute) (Ref)
• Moderate to severe hepatic impairment
• Concurrent use of other medications that increase bleeding risk (eg, anticoagulants, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) (Ref)
• Older age (≥80 years) (Ref)
• Recent trauma or surgery (eg, CABG)
• Recent or recurrent GI bleeding
• Active peptic ulcer disease
Ventricular pause and bradyarrhythmias, including atrioventricular (AV) block, have been reported with the use of ticagrelor (Ref). In the PLATO trial, a non-statistically significant higher incidence of bradyarrhythmias was found, and statistical significance was confirmed in a substudy of patients enrolled in the PLATO trial (Ref). Bradyarrhythmias consisted primarily of asymptomatic and nocturnal ventricular pause originating from the sinoatrial node (SA) (Ref). These bradyarrhythmias have rarely been associated with syncope which are reversible upon discontinuation of ticagrelor (Ref).
Mechanism: Not fully established; one potential mechanism includes direct effects on cardiac automaticity or conduction by P2Y12 inhibition. Another potential mechanism includes inhibition of adenosine uptake by erythrocytes, increasing systemic adenosine concentrations, exacerbating vagal-mediated nocturnal bradycardia, and/or directly inhibiting SA node conduction (Ref).
Onset: Varied; ventricular pauses ≥3 seconds were noted more frequently with ticagrelor than with clopidogrel during the first week following hospitalization for an acute coronary syndrome (Ref). In some case studies, bradycardia occurred within hours after ticagrelor administration (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Concurrent use of AV nodal blocking agents (Ref)
• Underlying conduction disorder (sick sinus syndrome, AV nodal block, left or right bundle branch block, bradycardia-related syncope not protected by a pacemaker) (Ref)
Respiratory effects, including dyspnea (most common) and sleep apnea, including Cheyne-Stokes respiration, have been reported with ticagrelor (Ref). Multiple trials have reported an increased incidence of dyspnea in patients receiving ticagrelor compared to clopidogrel or aspirin alone (Ref). One study reported central sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome more frequently in patients taking ticagrelor; however, other studies have not found this association (Ref). Although not fatal, dyspnea and sleep apnea may not be well tolerated, warranting discontinuation. In most cases, dyspnea is self-limiting and resolves within 1 week of treatment (Ref). Sleep apnea also appears to resolve upon discontinuation (Ref).
Mechanism: Non–dose-related; inhibits sodium-independent equilibrative nucleoside transporter-1, increasing adenosine levels in plasma and affecting vagal fibers in the lungs, leading to dyspnea (Ref). Additionally, ticagrelor may have CNS P2Y12 receptor inhibitory effects, increasing chemo-sensitivity to hypercapnia (Ref).
Onset:
• Dyspnea: Rapid; typically develops within the first 24 hours of therapy; however, may occur later (Ref).
• Sleep apnea: Varied; sleep apnea events occurred from 7 days to up to 1 year following therapy initiation (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Females (Ref)
• Age >70 years (Ref)
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Ref)
Cases of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) associated with ticagrelor have been reported, and while rare, some have resulted in fatalities, particularly following rechallenge (Ref). The overall evidence of ticagrelor-associated TTP is limited to case reports. Early signs of TTP may include neurologic changes (eg, headache, fatigue, hemiparesis/stroke) (Ref). TTP is typically characterized by thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, kidney or liver failure, and fever (Ref).
Mechanism: Possibly immunologic; production of autoantibodies against ADAMTS-13, inducing microvascular thrombosis and other symptoms of TTP may play a major role (Ref). In several cases, low ADAMTS-13 was found, supporting this mechanism (Ref).
Onset: Varied; patients presented from 2 weeks to 2 months following initiation of ticagrelor (Ref).
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
>10%: Respiratory: Dyspnea (14% to 21%) (table 1)
Drug (Ticagrelor) |
Comparator (Clopidogrel) |
Number of Patients (Ticagrelor) |
Number of Patients (Clopidogrel) |
---|---|---|---|
21% |
N/A |
9,619 |
N/A |
14% |
8% |
9,235 |
9,186 |
14% |
6% |
6,958 |
6,996 |
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: ECG abnormality (ventricular pause: 2% to 6%) (table 2)
Drug (Ticagrelor) |
Comparator (Clopidogrel) |
Comments |
---|---|---|
6% |
4% |
Ventricular pauses; acute phase |
2% |
2% |
Ventricular pauses; after 1 month |
Gastrointestinal: Nausea (4%)
Hematologic & oncologic: Hemorrhage (4%; major hemorrhage: 4%) (table 3)
Drug (Ticagrelor) |
Comparator (Clopidogrel) |
Number of Patients (Ticagrelor) |
Number of Patients (Clopidogrel) |
Comments |
---|---|---|---|---|
4% |
3% |
9,235 |
9,186 |
Noncoronary artery bypass graft surgery-related bleeding events |
Nervous system: Dizziness (5%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Gout (≤2%)
Renal: Increased serum creatinine (4% to 7%; transient)
Frequency not defined: Endocrine & metabolic: Increased uric acid
Postmarketing:
Cardiovascular: Atrioventricular block (Waldmann 2018), bradycardia (Waldmann 2018)
Dermatologic: Skin rash
Hematologic & oncologic: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (Wang 2018)
Hypersensitivity: Angioedema (Piranavan 2018; Seecheran 2017)
Respiratory: Cheyne-Stokes respiration (Giannoni 2016), sleep apnea (central) (Paboeuf 2019)
Miscellaneous: Laboratory test abnormality (false negative platelet functional tests, including heparin-induced platelet aggregation [HIPA] assay)
Hypersensitivity (eg, angioedema) to ticagrelor or any component of the formulation; active pathological bleeding (eg, peptic ulcer, intracranial hemorrhage); history of intracranial hemorrhage
Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): Moderate to severe hepatic impairment; concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (eg, ketoconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir, atazanavir, nefazodone)
Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Hyperuricemia: Use with caution in patients with a history of hyperuricemia or gouty arthritis. Renal uptake and transport of uric acid are inhibited by ticagrelor and its active metabolite and the risk of hyperuricemia may be increased (Butler 2012a; Zhang 2015). However, reports of gout did not differ between treatment groups in the PLATO trial.
Disease-related concerns:
• Bleeding disorders: Use with caution in patients with platelet disorders, bleeding disorders, and/or at increased risk for bleeding.
• Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia: False-negative results may occur for platelet activation functional assays, which are used to diagnose heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. This may be due to ticagrelor inhibition of P2Y12 receptors on healthy donor platelets, which are used for the assay, reducing platelet activation and interfering with results.
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with moderate hepatic impairment (limited experience); avoid use in severe hepatic impairment (has not been studied).
• Renal impairment: Creatinine levels may rise during therapy (mechanism undetermined); monitor renal function.
Special populations:
• Acute ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack patients: Use is not recommended in acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack patients with an NIHSS score >5 or patients receiving thrombolysis; not studied.
• Lower GI bleed patients: An individualized and multidisciplinary approach should be utilized to determine therapy discontinuation and management in patients with acute lower GI bleed who are on antiplatelet medications; risk of ongoing bleeding should be weighed with risk of thromboembolic events. In patients receiving dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin plus P2Y12 inhibitor [eg, clopidogrel, prasugrel, ticagrelor, ticlopidine]) or P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy, the P2Y12 inhibitor should generally be resumed as soon as possible and at least within 7 days, taking into account control of bleeding and cardiovascular risk (aspirin should not be discontinued) (Strate 2016).
• Surgical patients: For elective coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, discontinue ticagrelor at least 3 days before surgery; when urgent CABG is necessary, discontinue ticagrelor for at least 24 hours prior to surgery (patient-specific situations should be discussed with a cardiologist, interventional cardiologist, and a cardiac surgeon) (ACC/AHA [Grines 2007]; ACC/AHA [Lawton 2022]). In patients undergoing noncardiac surgery, the risks and benefits of ticagrelor should be evaluated between the surgeon and the cardiology team. Elective noncardiac surgery should not be performed in patients in whom dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) will need to be discontinued perioperatively within 30 days following bare metal stent placement or within 3 months of drug-eluting stent placement. In patients undergoing urgent noncardiac surgery during the first 4 to 6 weeks after BMS or DES placement, continue DAPT. In patients undergoing noncardiac surgery that requires discontinuation of ticagrelor, hold for 3 to 5 days preoperatively, continue aspirin and restart ticagrelor as soon as possible (eg, ≤24 hours) after surgery based on bleeding and thrombotic risks (ACC/AHA [Fleisher 2014]; ACC/AHA [Lawton 2022]; ACC/AHA [Levine 2016]; ACCP [Douketis 2022]).
Other warnings/precautions:
• Discontinuation of therapy: For patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting, premature interruption of therapy may result in increased risk of myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, stroke, or death. If therapy must be held temporarily (eg, bleeding, surgery), restart as soon as possible. Duration of therapy is determined by the type of stent placed (bare metal or drug eluting), whether an acute coronary syndrome event was ongoing at the time of placement, as well as risks for bleeding and thrombosis (ACC/AHA [Lawton 2022]).
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral:
Brilinta: 60 mg, 90 mg
Generic: 60 mg, 90 mg
Yes
Tablets (Brilinta Oral)
60 mg (per each): $9.30
90 mg (per each): $9.30
Tablets (Ticagrelor Oral)
60 mg (per each): $8.83
90 mg (per each): $3.08 - $8.83
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral:
Brilinta: 60 mg, 90 mg
Generic: 60 mg, 90 mg
Oral: Administer with or without food. Missed doses should be taken at their next regularly scheduled time. For patients unable to swallow whole, tablets may be crushed and mixed with water to create a suspension for oral or NG (CH8/Fr8 or greater according to the manufacturer) use. If suspension is administered orally, refill glass with water, stir and drink; if administered via NG tube, flush NG tube through with water after administration (Ref). Administration of crushed tablets, while bioequivalent to administration of whole tablets, may result in increased concentrations of ticagrelor and the major active metabolite at earlier time points (Ref).
An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and as follows, must be dispensed with this medication:
Brilinta: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/022433s034lbl.pdf
Acute coronary syndrome: To reduce the risk of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or a history of MI. Ticagrelor also reduces the risk of stent thrombosis in patients who have been stented for treatment of ACS.
Coronary artery disease (stable) and high risk for ischemic cardiovascular events, primary prevention: To reduce the risk of first MI or stroke in patients with coronary artery disease at high risk for such events. Note: Efficacy was established in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (Steg 2019), but the manufacturer does not limit use to this setting.
Minor ischemic stroke (based on National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score) or high-risk transient ischemic attack (based on ABCD2 score): To reduce the risk of stroke in patients who meet these criteria.
Carotid artery stenting; Percutaneous coronary intervention for stable ischemic heart disease
Brilinta may be confused with Brintellix, Briviact.
Beers Criteria: Ticagrelor is identified in the Beers Criteria as a potentially inappropriate medication to be used with caution, especially in patients 75 years and older due to increased risk of bleeding compared with clopidogrel; however, cardiovascular benefit in certain older adults may offset risk (Beers Criteria [AGS 2023]).
Substrate of CYP3A4 (Major); Note: Assignment of Major/Minor substrate status based on clinically relevant drug interaction potential; Inhibits BCRP;
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Abrocitinib: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase antiplatelet effects of Abrocitinib. Management: Do not use antiplatelet drugs with abrocitinib during the first 3 months of abrocitinib therapy. The abrocitinib prescribing information lists this combination as contraindicated. This does not apply to low dose aspirin (81 mg/day or less). Risk X: Avoid
Acalabrutinib: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Aducanumab: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Agents with Antiplatelet Effects: May increase antiplatelet effects of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Alpelisib: BCRP/ABCG2 Inhibitors may increase serum concentration of Alpelisib. Management: Avoid coadministration of BCRP/ABCG2 inhibitors and alpelisib due to the potential for increased alpelisib concentrations and toxicities. If coadministration cannot be avoided, closely monitor for increased alpelisib adverse reactions. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Anagrelide: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Anticoagulants (Miscellaneous Agents): Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase anticoagulant effects of Anticoagulants (Miscellaneous Agents). Risk C: Monitor
Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors): May increase antiplatelet effects of Ticagrelor. Risk X: Avoid
Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors): Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase antiplatelet effects of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Aspirin: May increase antiplatelet effects of Ticagrelor. Aspirin may decrease therapeutic effects of Ticagrelor. More specifically, the benefits of ticagrelor relative to clopidogrel may be diminished in adult patients receiving daily aspirin doses greater than 100-150 mg daily. Management: Avoid maintenance aspirin doses greater than 150 mg/day in patients receiving ticagrelor. After any initial dose, only low-dose aspirin (75 to 100 mg/day) is recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Atorvastatin: Ticagrelor may increase serum concentration of Atorvastatin. Risk C: Monitor
Caplacizumab: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Management: Avoid this combination if possible. If coadministration is required, monitor closely for bleeding. Interrupt caplacizumab if clinically significant bleeding occurs and administer von Willebrand factor concentrate to rapidly correct hemostasis, if needed. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Cladribine: BCRP/ABCG2 Inhibitors may increase serum concentration of Cladribine. Management: Avoid concomitant use of BCRP inhibitors during the 4 to 5 day oral cladribine treatment cycles whenever possible. If combined, consider dose reduction of the BCRP inhibitor and separation in the timing of administration. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Clofazimine: May increase serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Collagenase (Systemic): Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase adverse/toxic effects of Collagenase (Systemic). Specifically, the risk of injection site bruising and or bleeding may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
CycloSPORINE (Systemic): May increase serum concentration of Ticagrelor. Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease serum concentration of Ticagrelor. CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate) may decrease active metabolite exposure of Ticagrelor. Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May decrease serum concentration of Ticagrelor. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease active metabolite exposure of Ticagrelor. Risk X: Avoid
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate): May increase serum concentration of Ticagrelor. CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate) may decrease active metabolite exposure of Ticagrelor. Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease active metabolite exposure of Ticagrelor. CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase serum concentration of Ticagrelor. Risk X: Avoid
Dabigatran Etexilate: Ticagrelor may increase anticoagulant effects of Dabigatran Etexilate. Ticagrelor may increase serum concentration of Dabigatran Etexilate. Management: Consider the risks and benefits. If combined, increase monitoring for bleeding. Consider avoiding this combination if CrCl is less than 30 mL/min for the treatment of atrial fibrillation of if CrCl is less than 50 mL/min for other indications. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Dasatinib: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Deoxycholic Acid: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Desirudin: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase anticoagulant effects of Desirudin. Risk C: Monitor
Diamorphine: May decrease antiplatelet effects of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). Diamorphine may decrease serum concentration of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Digoxin: Ticagrelor may increase serum concentration of Digoxin. Risk C: Monitor
Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs): Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors) may increase anticoagulant effects of Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs). Risk C: Monitor
Donanemab: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
FentaNYL: May decrease antiplatelet effects of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). FentaNYL may decrease serum concentration of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Fondaparinux: Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors) may increase anticoagulant effects of Fondaparinux. Management: Discontinue antiplatelet agents, such as P2Y12 inhibitors, prior to fondaparinux therapy, if possible. If co-administration is required use caution and monitor for bleeding. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Fusidic Acid (Systemic): May increase serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Management: Consider avoiding this combination if possible. If required, monitor patients closely for increased adverse effects of the CYP3A4 substrate. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase anticoagulant effects of Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors. Risk C: Monitor
Grapefruit Juice: May increase serum concentration of Ticagrelor. Risk C: Monitor
Heparin: Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors) may increase anticoagulant effects of Heparin. Risk C: Monitor
Heparins (Low Molecular Weight): Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors) may increase anticoagulant effects of Heparins (Low Molecular Weight). Risk C: Monitor
Herbal Products with Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Effects: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Ibritumomab Tiuxetan: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase antiplatelet effects of Ibritumomab Tiuxetan. Risk C: Monitor
Ibrutinib: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ibrutinib. Specifically, the risks of bleeding and hemorrhage may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Icosapent Ethyl: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Inotersen: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase adverse/toxic effects of Inotersen. Specifically, the risk of bleeding may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Itraconazole: May increase serum concentration of Ticagrelor. Risk X: Avoid
Lecanemab: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Limaprost: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Specifically, the risk of bleeding may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Lipid Emulsion (Fish Oil Based): May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Lomitapide: Ticagrelor may increase serum concentration of Lomitapide. Management: Patients taking lomitapide 10 mg/day or more should decrease the lomitapide dose by half with concurrent ticagrelor; the lomitapide dose may then be increased to a max adult dose of 30 mg/day (patients on lomitapide 5 mg/day may continue that dose). Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Lovastatin: Ticagrelor may increase serum concentration of Lovastatin. Management: Limit lovastatin doses to 40 mg/day if coadministered with ticagrelor. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Miscellaneous Antiplatelets: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Morphine (Systemic): May decrease antiplatelet effects of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). Morphine (Systemic) may decrease serum concentration of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). Management: Consider alternative anti-ischemic/analgesic therapies (eg, beta-blockers, nitroglycerin) in patients with acute coronary syndromes treated with a P2Y12 inhibitor when possible. The risks associated with other opioids are unknown. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Multivitamins/Fluoride (with ADE): May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Multivitamins/Minerals (with ADEK, Folate, Iron): May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Multivitamins/Minerals (with AE, No Iron): May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Obinutuzumab: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase adverse/toxic effects of Obinutuzumab. Specifically, the risk of bleeding may be increased. Management: Consider avoiding coadministration of obinutuzumab and therapeutic antiplatelets, especially during the first cycle of obinutuzumab therapy. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
PAZOPanib: BCRP/ABCG2 Inhibitors may increase serum concentration of PAZOPanib. Risk X: Avoid
Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase adverse/toxic effects of Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium. Specifically, the risk of hemorrhage may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Phenobarbital-Primidone: May decrease serum concentration of Ticagrelor. Risk C: Monitor
Pirtobrutinib: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Red Yeast Rice: Ticagrelor may increase serum concentration of Red Yeast Rice. Management: Avoid using doses of red yeast rice greater than the equivalent of lovastatin 40 mg/day with ticagrelor. Monitor for increased systemic effects of lovastatin in patients receiving concurrent ticagrelor. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Rosuvastatin: Ticagrelor may increase myopathic (rhabdomyolysis) effects of Rosuvastatin. Ticagrelor may increase serum concentration of Rosuvastatin. Risk C: Monitor
Seladelpar: BCRP/ABCG2 Inhibitors may increase serum concentration of Seladelpar. Risk C: Monitor
Selumetinib: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Simvastatin: Ticagrelor may increase serum concentration of Simvastatin. Management: Avoid using doses of simvastatin greater than 40 mg/day with ticagrelor. Monitor for increased systemic effects of simvastatin in patients receiving concurrent ticagrelor. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Talazoparib: BCRP/ABCG2 Inhibitors may increase serum concentration of Talazoparib. Risk C: Monitor
Therapeutic Antiplatelets: May increase antiplatelet effects of Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Thrombolytic Agents: Therapeutic Antiplatelets may increase adverse/toxic effects of Thrombolytic Agents. Specifically, the risk of bleeding may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Tipranavir: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Topotecan: BCRP/ABCG2 Inhibitors may increase serum concentration of Topotecan. Risk X: Avoid
Ubrogepant: BCRP/ABCG2 Inhibitors may increase serum concentration of Ubrogepant. Management: Use an initial ubrogepant dose of 50 mg and second dose (at least 2 hours later if needed) of 50 mg when used with a BCRP inhibitor. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Vitamin E (Systemic): May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Vitamin K Antagonists: Antiplatelet Agents (P2Y12 Inhibitors) may increase anticoagulant effects of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor
Volanesorsen: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Zanubrutinib: May increase antiplatelet effects of Therapeutic Antiplatelets. Risk C: Monitor
Outcome data following the use of ticagrelor in pregnancy are limited (Antonijevic 2023, Serna Candel 2019, Verbruggen 2015).
Due to lack of data, use in pregnancy is not recommended (ESC [Regitz-Zagrosek 2018]).
It is not known if ticagrelor is present in breast milk.
Breastfeeding is not recommended by the manufacturer.
Signs of bleeding; hemoglobin and hematocrit periodically; sign/symptoms of bradycardia; renal function; uric acid levels (patients with gout or at risk of hyperuricemia); signs/symptoms of dyspnea.
Reversibly and noncompetitively binds the adenosine diphosphate (ADP) P2Y12 receptor on the platelet surface which prevents ADP-mediated activation of the GPIIb/IIIa receptor complex thereby reducing platelet aggregation. Due to the reversible antagonism of the P2Y12 receptor, recovery of platelet function is likely to depend on serum concentrations of ticagrelor and its active metabolite.
Onset of inhibition of platelet aggregation (IPA): 180 mg loading dose: ~41% within 30 minutes (similar to clopidogrel 600 mg at 8 hours)
Peak effect: Time to maximal IPA: 180 mg loading dose: IPA ~88% at 2 hours post administration
Duration of IPA: 180 mg loading dose: 87% to 89% maintained from 2 to 8 hours; 24 hours after the last maintenance dose, IPA is 58% (similar to maintenance dosing for clopidogrel)
Time after discontinuation when IPA is 30%: ~56 hours; IPA 10%: ~110 hours (Gurbel 2009). Mean IPA observed with ticagrelor at 3 days post-discontinuation was comparable to that observed with clopidogrel at 5 days post discontinuation.
Absorption: Rapid
Distribution: 88 L
Protein binding: >99% (parent drug and active metabolite)
Metabolism: Hepatic via CYP3A4/5 to active metabolite (AR-C124910XX)
Bioavailability: ~36% (range: 30% to 42%)
Half-life elimination: Parent drug: ~7 hours; active metabolite: ~9 hours
Time to peak:
Whole tablets: Parent drug: 1.5 hours (median; range: 1 to 4 hours); Active metabolite (AR-C124910XX): 2.5 hours (median; range: 1.5 to 5 hours)
Crushed tablets: Oral or nasogastric tube administration: Parent drug: ~1 hour (median; range: 1 to 4 hours); Active metabolite (AR-C124910XX): 2 hours (median; range: 1 to 8 hours). Note: Significantly higher concentrations of both ticagrelor and AR-C124910XX may appear at earlier time points (0.5 and 1 hour, respectively) when administered as crushed tablets (Teng 2015).
Excretion: Feces (58%); urine (26%); actual amount of parent drug and active metabolite excreted in urine was <1% of total dose administered
Altered kidney function: AUC and Cmax were 38% and 51% higher, respectively, in patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis compared to patients with normal renal function following a single 90 mg dose of ticagrelor administered on a nondialysis day; similar exposure was observed when administered immediately prior to dialysis. Inhibition of platelet aggregation was independent of dialysis and similar to healthy adults with normal renal function.
Cigarette smoking: Mean clearance was increased by ~22% in smokers.