What does it do?

Ticagrelor is used to prevent clots forming in your blood. This reduces your chance of having a heart attack.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have breathing, liver or bleeding problems, or gout.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take ticagrelor regularly as directed with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with ticagrelor including:

• anti-inflammatories, such as diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren®), ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen®), or aspirin (e.g. Disprin®, in doses used for pain relief). These can also be found in some cold and flu medicines (e.g. Nurofen Cold and Flu®).

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Reduced number of blood cells that help your blood to clot - symptoms include: unusual bleeding Coughing or vomiting of blood, vomit that looks like coffee grounds Nose bleeds Red or dark brown urine, red or black bowel motions Headache, dizziness, changes in vision or speech	Tell your doctor immediately
Short of breath Easy or unusual bruising	Tell your doctor

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• It is important to tell anyone who gives you medical or dental treatment (e.g. doctor, dentist, pharmacist or podiatrist) that you are taking ticagrelor.
• Grapefruit, grapefruit juice or sour/Seville oranges may react with ticagrelor. Discuss with your pharmacist.