What is a critical side effect of Brilinta (ticagrelor)?

Brilinta (ticagrelor) is an antiplatelet medication commonly used in the management of acute coronary syndrome and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. One of the most significant and critical side effects associated with the use of ticagrelor is the increased risk of bleeding. This occurs because ticagrelor works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, thereby preventing clots from forming; however, this mechanism also predisposes patients to excessive bleeding, which can manifest in various ways, such as gastrointestinal bleeding or hemorrhagic stroke.

Understanding this side effect is crucial for healthcare providers when prescribing ticagrelor, as they must weigh the benefits of the medication against the potential risk for bleeding, especially in patients with other comorbidities or those on additional anticoagulant therapy. Monitoring patients for signs of bleeding and providing appropriate education on this risk is essential in clinical practice.

The other choices pertain to characteristics or side effects of ticagrelor but do not hold the same level of criticality as increased bleeding risk. While the short half-life is a pharmacokinetic property that may influence dosing regimens, and increased liver enzymes could indicate hepatic metabolism issues, the potential for increased bleeding is a more immediate and significant concern