Indications
Aggrenox (active ingredients: aspirin/dipyridamole) is a prescription medication indicated for:
- Stroke Prevention: Aggrenox is used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients who have had transient ischemia of the brain or completed ischemic stroke due to thrombosis.
Aggrenox belongs to a class of drugs known as antiplatelet agents, which work by preventing platelets from clumping together to form clots. This helps to maintain blood flow and reduce the risk of stroke. The combination of aspirin and dipyridamole in Aggrenox provides dual antiplatelet action, with aspirin inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzyme and dipyridamole inhibiting phosphodiesterase and blocking the uptake of adenosine.
Uses and Dosage
Aggrenox is available in the form of extended-release capsules. Aggrenox regularly at the same times each day to receive the maximum benefit from it. Do not break, crush, or chew the capsules, as doing so can release all the drug at once and increase the risk of side effects. Your dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. If you experience severe headaches when starting this medication, your doctor may temporarily adjust your dose.
The standard dosing for Aggrenox (aspirin/dipyridamole) involves taking one capsule orally twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, with or without food. It is recommended to swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) and avoid crushing or chewing it. Each capsule contains 25mg of aspirin and 200mg of extended-release dipyridamole.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Aggrenox (Dipyridamole/Asa):
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Heartburn
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Aggrenox (Dipyridamole/Asa):
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Irregular heartbeat
- Unusual tiredness
- Unusual weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Dark urine
- Yellowish skin
- Fainting
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Signs of stroke (trouble speaking, weakness on one side of the body, confusion, sudden vision changes)
- Signs of a heart attack (chest pain radiating to the jaw and left arm, shortness of breath, unusual sweating)
- Signs of kidney problems (changes in urine output)
Form and Strength
Aggrenox (Dipyridamole/Asa) is available in the following forms and strength:
Dipyridamole/Asa: ER Capsule
- 200/25 mg
Caution
- Bleeding: Aggrenox can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if taken with other blood-thinning medications or in people with bleeding disorders.
- Allergic reactions: Aggrenox can cause allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and hives.
- Kidney or liver problems: Aggrenox can cause liver or kidney problems in some people, especially those with pre-existing conditions.
- Low blood pressure: Aggrenox can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
- Nursing women: Dipyridamole and Asa are excreted in human breast milk, so caution should be exercised when Aggrenox is administered to a nursing woman.
- Surgery: Aggrenox can increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider before undergoing any surgical procedure.
- Asthma: Aspirin, one of the components of Aggrenox, can cause bronchospasm in some people with asthma.
- Pregnancy: Aggrenox should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed, as the effects on the fetus are not well known.
- High blood pressure: Aspirin can increase blood pressure, so patients with hypertension should monitor their blood pressure while taking Aggrenox.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drink alcohol while taking Aggrenox?
Doctors recommend people who are taking Aggrenox to moderate their alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking with these drugs increases the risk of stomach bleeding.
How should I take Aggrenox?
Aggrenox should be taken twice a day, with or without food. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Aggrenox?
If you miss a dose of Aggrenox, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/nda/99/20884_AGGRENOX_prntlbl.pdf
- https://www.drugs.com/aggrenox.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6473563d-b4df-4434-a74e-f8fa3cb9994f
- https://www.goodrx.com/aggrenox/what-is
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6473563d-b4df-4434-a74e-f8fa3cb9994f
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/aspirin-and-dipyridamole-oral-route/description/drg-20061846
- https://www.rxlist.com/aggrenox-drug.htm
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