What it does
Ticagrelor is a medication that helps prevent blood clots.
Commonly used for: prevention of heart attacks, prevention of strokes, acute coronary syndrome
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Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-05-12 08:01:04 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:08
About this medicine
Ticagrelor is a medication that helps prevent blood clots.
What it treats
- prevention of heart attacks
- prevention of strokes
- acute coronary syndrome
How it works
It works by preventing platelets in the blood from sticking together and forming clots.
Who it's for
It is typically prescribed for adults at risk of heart-related problems.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: ticagrelur
Ticagrelor is an oral antiplatelet medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as P2Y12 inhibitors. It is primarily used to reduce the risk of thrombotic cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and in those undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Ticagrelor is distinguished from other antiplatelet agents by its reversible binding to the P2Y12 receptor, leading to a more rapid onset of action and a shorter duration of effect.
Indications
- Acute coronary syndrome (ACS)
- Unstable angina
- Myocardial infarction (MI)
- Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
- Secondary prevention of cardiovascular events
Dosage
Children: There is no established
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidelines based on clinical indications and individual patient factors.
Mechanism of action
Ticagrelor acts as a selective and reversible antagonist of the P2Y12 receptor, which is a subtype of the purinergic receptor involved in platelet activation and aggregation. By inhibiting the binding of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to the P2Y12 receptor, ticagrelor prevents the activation of the glycoprotein IIb/IIIa complex, thereby inhibiting platelet aggregation and thrombus formation.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of ticagrelor are characterized by a rapid and consistent antiplatelet effect, which is dose-dependent. Ticagrelor leads to a significant reduction in platelet aggregation, which is observed within 30 minutes of administration. This effect is sustained over the dosing interval, contributing to a decrease in the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Pharmacokinetics
Ticagrelor is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1-3 hours. It undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism, primarily via the cytochrome P450 isoenzyme CYP3A4, resulting in active metabolites. The half-life of ticagrelor is approximately 7 hours, but its antiplatelet effects can persist longer due to the irreversible nature of platelet inhibition. Ticagrelor is eliminated primarily through the urine, with around 60% of the dose excreted as metabolites.
Contra-indications
- Active bleeding
- History of intracranial hemorrhage
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Hypersensitivity to ticagrelor or any of its components
Adverse effects
- Bleeding
- Dyspnea
- Bradycardia
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Elevated uric acid levels
- Rash
Interactions
- Increased risk of bleeding with other antiplatelet agents
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase ticagrelor levels
- CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine) may decrease ticagrelor levels
- Aspirin doses above 100 mg may reduce the effectiveness of ticagrelor
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of bleeding
- Use with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Caution in patients with renal impairment
- Discontinue prior to surgery to reduce risk of bleeding
Pregnancy
There are limited data on the use of ticagrelor in pregnancy. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Ticagrelor is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets: 90 mg, 60 mg
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.