Aggrenox

The active ingredients in Aggrenox are dipyridamole and acetylsalicylic acid. Dipyridamole works by preventing platelets from sticking to each other. It blocks the uptake of adenosine in platelets, thus preventing blood clots. Acetylsalicylic acid, also known as aspirin or ASA, is an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and salicylic drug. The pharmacology of how it works is that it thins the blood, and at higher doses, it decreases chemicals that cause pain, fever, and inflammation.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Aggrenox. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Aggrenox:

• Follow the directions from your healthcare professional. The recommended dose is 1 capsule by mouth every 12 hours.
• You can take it with or without food.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking it as scheduled.
• Do not chew, crush, or split the extended-release capsule.
• Do not use this medication in children (younger than 18 years old) due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

The most common side effects of Aggrenox include:

• Headache.
• Nausea
• Diarrhea.
• Heartburn.
• Stomach pain or abdominal pain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Aggrenox. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reaction. Signs include hives, rash, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
• New or worsening chest pain.
• Hearing loss.
• Liver problems. Signs include jaundice, itching, loss of appetite, and dark urine.
• Internal bleeding problems are due to an increased risk of bleeding. Signs include black or tarry stools, coughing up blood that looks like coffee grounds, severe lightheadedness, severe headache, fainting, and confusion.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Aggrenox. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Aggrenox, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Allergy to other NSAIDs like naproxen.
• Hypotension (low blood pressure).
• Myasthenia gravis.
• Active stomach ulcer or duodenal ulcer.
• Heart problems like angina.

• Asthma, nasal inflammation (rhinitis), or nasal polyps.
• Allergy to acetylsalicylic acid or dipyridamole.
• Children or teenagers with viral infections.

Aggrenox starts working within 2 hours and has a short half-life.

When Aggrenox is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Salicylates like acetazolamide.
• NSAIDs like naproxen and ibuprofen.
• Antiplatelet agents like clopidogrel.
• Anticoagulant agents like warfarin, heparin, and
• Diuretics.
• Alcohol.
• Methotrexate.

Aggrenox contains 200 mg of dipyridamole and 25 mg of acetylsalicylic acid per extended-release capsule. It is typically taken twice daily (once in the morning and once in the evening).

Store Aggrenox at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Boehringer-Ingelheim manufactures Aggrenox.

Yes, there is generic Aggrenox (aspirin-dipyridamole) available.

Do not stop taking Aggrenox without talking to your healthcare provider. This is because your risk of stroke and blood clots may increase. It’s important to continue taking Aggrenox even if you feel fine.

Based on limited human data, dipyridamole has a low risk when used in pregnancy. Acetylsalicylic acid is possibly safe in pregnancy, but doses greater than 81 mg should be used with caution due to the risk of prolonged labor, maternal bleeding, and neonatal bleeding. Human data suggest a risk in the first and third trimesters. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Based on limited human data, dipyridamole is probably compatible with breastfeeding. Acetylsalicylic acid should be used with caution in breastfeeding as there is a risk of metabolic acidosis and Reye’s syndrome in the infant. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.