Brilinta (ticagrelor) and Plavix (clopidogrel) are blood-thinning medications, also calledblood thinners.
As antiplatelet drugs, Brilinta and Plavix work by blocking the P2Y12 receptor in your body.
This receptor helps small blood cells calledplateletsstick together to form clots.
Getty Images / Catherine McQueen
By blocking the P2Y12 receptor, Brilinta and Plavix prevent blood clots.
Brilinta is generally considered more effective than Plavix.
However, there are several important factors to consider when selecting the right treatment.
This article will discuss the similarities and differences between Brilinta and Plavix.
They both block the P2Y12 receptor to keep platelets from forming blood clots in the body.
What Is Acute Coronary Syndrome?
A blockage in the heart happens quickly and is often the result of a blood clot.
This blockage needs immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of ACS include:
What Is a Myocardial Infarction?
A myocardial infarction, or heart attack, is a punch in of ACS.
A heart attack occurs due to a clogged artery in the heart.
What Is a Percutaneous Coronary Intervention?
When this tube is holding the heart vessels open, blood can get to where it needs to go.
Which Is More Effective?
Brilinta is stronger and works faster than Plavix.
Because Plavix requires this activation, it takes longer to start working.
Brilinta, on the other hand, works on its own without your body having to activate it.
Though Brilinta is considered more effective than Plavix, it’s also more likely to cause bleeding.
Plavix is also more affordable than Brilinta because it has a generic version available.
Safety Warnings and Risks
Plavix and Brilinta both come with safety warnings and risks.
It’s also important to know about possible interactions with other drugs to avoid harm.
Brilinta poses a higher risk of bleeding than Plavix does.
You should not:
However, Plavix can also increase the risk of bleeding.
Your healthcare provider will weigh these risks when deciding to prescribe these medications.
Drug Interactions
It’s also important to know about possible interactions with other drugs to avoid harm.
Both Plavix and Brilinta can cause problems when they interact with strong blood-thinning drugs likewarfarinorheparin.
However, Plavix and Brilinta also have some different drug interactions.
The most common side effect of Plavix and Brilinta is the increased risk of bleeding.
This can take the form of nosebleeds, bruising, or bleeding that takes longer to stop.
If you have low levels of this enzyme, Brilinta might be a better option.
check that you discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
They will prescribe the medication they believe will suit you best based on your condition and medical history.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Plavix label.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Brilinta label.
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