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About ticagrelor - Brand name: Brilique

Ticagrelor is an antiplatelet medicine. It prevents platelets (a type of blood cell) from sticking together and forming a dangerous blood clot.

Taking ticagrelor can help prevent blood clots if you have an increased risk of having them because you:

Ticagrelor is only available on prescription. It comes as standard tablets that you usually swallow whole or tablets that melt in your mouth.

Key facts

  • You'll usually take ticagrelor twice a day.
  • Ticagrelor is often prescribed together with low-dose aspirin at the start of treatment.
  • The main side effects of ticagrelor are getting out of breath and bleeding more easily than normal. You may have nosebleeds, heavier periods, bleeding gums and bruising.
  • If ticagrelor makes you feel dizzy, do not drive, cycle or use machinery or tools until you feel better.
  • You can drink alcohol with ticagrelor. But do not drink too much while taking this medicine. It can irritate your stomach.
  • You may need to stop taking ticagrelor for a short time before having surgery or dental treatment, but check with your doctor or dentist first.

Page last reviewed: 1 April 2025
Next review due: 1 April 2028