Indications
Aspirin Immediate Release is the fast-releasing low-dose aspirin part of a combination capsule that also contains Dipyridamole Extended Release Pellets (usually 25 mg Aspirin with 200 mg Dipyridamole). The combination is used to lower the risk of another stroke in adults who have had an ischaemic stroke (caused by a clot) or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA, a mini-stroke).
How It Works
Aspirin permanently blocks the enzyme cyclooxygenase in platelets, the small blood cells that clump together to form clots. This stops them making thromboxane A2, a substance that makes platelets sticky. In the immediate release form, the low dose is absorbed quickly. Together with Dipyridamole, which works on platelets in a different way, it reduces clot formation in the arteries supplying the brain.
Dosage and Administration
Take as prescribed. The usual adult dose of the combination is one capsule twice daily, morning and evening, swallowed whole with water, with or without food. Do not crush or chew the capsule. If headaches are troublesome at the start, the doctor may adjust the schedule for the first week. Do not stop without talking to your doctor, as this may raise the risk of stroke.
Interactions
The risk of bleeding is higher with other blood thinners such as Warfarin, Heparin, Clopidogrel and Rivaroxaban, with NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen, with steroids, and with antidepressants such as Fluoxetine or Sertraline. Ibuprofen taken just before aspirin may reduce its effect. Aspirin can reduce the effect of some blood pressure medicines and diuretics and can increase the levels of Methotrexate. Avoid alcohol in large amounts.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Aspirin, other NSAIDs or Dipyridamole, including aspirin-induced asthma.
- Active stomach or intestinal ulcer or bleeding.
- Bleeding disorders such as haemophilia.
- Severe liver or kidney disease.
- Children and teenagers under 16 years (risk of Reye’s syndrome).
- The last 3 months of pregnancy.
Side Effects
Common effects of the combination include headache (often in the first weeks), indigestion, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhoea, dizziness and easy bruising or nosebleeds.
Get urgent medical help if you vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, pass black or tarry stools, have any severe or unusual bleeding, sudden severe headache, weakness on one side, slurred speech, chest pain, or swelling of the face and difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use in the last 3 months of pregnancy, as aspirin can harm the baby’s heart and kidneys and cause bleeding at delivery. Earlier in pregnancy, use only if a doctor decides it is necessary. Aspirin passes into breast milk; this combination is generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Tell your doctor or dentist before any surgery or tooth extraction that you take this medicine. Use with caution in people with a history of ulcers, asthma, gout, kidney problems, low blood pressure or severe heart artery disease. Aspirin in this product is not enough by itself for heart attack prevention; do not change other heart medicines without advice.
Overdose
Overdose may cause ringing in the ears, nausea, vomiting, fast breathing, confusion, low blood pressure, flushing and fast heartbeat. It is an emergency: go to a hospital with the pack.
Therapeutic Class
Antiplatelet agent (salicylate), used in combination with Dipyridamole.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the capsules in the original container with the lid tightly closed to protect them from moisture.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.