From the Research
Patients taking Brilinta (ticagrelor) should exercise caution with supplements and consult their healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, as several supplements can potentially interact with Brilinta, particularly those affecting blood clotting, such as omega-3 fatty acids, garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, vitamin E, and turmeric/curcumin, which can increase bleeding risk when combined with Brilinta 1, 2, 3. When considering supplements, it's essential to prioritize those that are safe and effective. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2021, found that several nutrients and phytonutrients may be promising for treating some aspects of cognitive impairment, but their effects on bleeding risk when combined with Brilinta are not well established 3. Some key points to consider when taking Brilinta and supplements include:
- Avoiding St. John's Wort, which can decrease Brilinta's effectiveness by increasing its metabolism
- Being cautious with omega-3 fatty acids, garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, vitamin E, and turmeric/curcumin, which have blood-thinning properties that could increase bleeding risk when combined with Brilinta
- Avoiding grapefruit juice and supplements containing grapefruit extract, which can increase Brilinta blood levels by inhibiting the CYP3A4 enzyme that metabolizes the medication
- Informing all healthcare providers about all medications and supplements being taken to ensure safe treatment It's crucial to weigh the potential benefits and risks of taking supplements while on Brilinta, and to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. The evidence suggests that while some supplements may have potential benefits, the risk of bleeding complications when combined with Brilinta is a significant concern 4, 5.