Aspirin (cardio dose)

Cardiology

Cardiology · Non-selective COX-1 inhibitor / antiplatelet

Aspirin (cardio dose)

Dose

Load 300 mg PO chewed in ACS. Maintenance 75–100 mg OD.

Mechanism

Irreversible COX-1 acetylation → ↓TXA2 → antiplatelet effect for platelet life (7–10 d).

Indications

  • ACS (loading 300 mg)
  • Secondary CV prevention (75 mg OD)
  • Post-PCI/CABG
  • Atrial fibrillation (rarely, if OAC contraindicated)

Contraindications

  • Active bleeding
  • Peptic ulcer
  • Severe asthma (aspirin-sensitive)
  • Age <16 (Reye)
  • Severe hepatic/renal impairment

Use

Cornerstone antiplatelet in ischaemic heart disease.

Monitoring

GI symptoms, bleeding; consider PPI if high risk.

Side effects

  • GI bleeding/ulcer
  • Bronchospasm
  • Tinnitus (toxicity)
  • Reye syndrome

Related in WardRound

Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.

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