Ticagrelor is an anti-platelet drug, typically given with Aspirin.
It is for patients who:
1. Underwent cardiac catheterization or surgery
2. Underwent the implantation of a valve, closure if a septal defect (hole in the heart), recently recieved a watchman (screen in a part of the top part of the heart) etc. Basically anyone who has an object inside their heart that was not there before.
3. Patients with Atrial Fibrillation, a genetic disease, or an aneurysm.
It's designed to stop blood clots from forming. It is a lifesaving medication that helps to make sure that your procedure doesn't develop fatal blood clotting complications.
Side effects:
Predominantly bleeding related, ie bruising, internal bleeding, nosebleeds etc.
Hemorrhagic stroke in some patients, particuarly those with extreme high blood pressure (over 200 systolic). Its therefore recommeneded that you acquire a home solution and check your blood pressure at regular intervals (once or twice per day).
Some patients report chest pain, shortness of breath and palpitations since starting ticagrelor, however it is unclear how much of this is related to the drug and how much is related to the underlying condition.
Ticagrelor is typically given as a replacement for 'Plavix'. It is significantly more expensive, but does show some benefit. (I.e. It works 10% better at double the price). As a consequence of this it is not prescribed as frequently, and remains the 3rd most common oral anti platelet on the market.