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Health Library Aspirin for Peripheral Arterial DiseaseFrom Healthwise

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Aspirin for peripheral arterial disease

Examples

Generic NameBrand Name
aspirinAnacin, Bayer, Bufferin

Brand-name aspirin is no more effective than generic or store brands.

How It Works

Aspirin helps prevent the formation of blood clots. This can decrease the chance that a blood clot will form and block an already-narrowed artery.

Why It Is Used

Aspirin may be given to people who have peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or risk factors for peripheral arterial disease. It may also be used after bypass surgery or angioplasty to prevent the formation of blood clots after these procedures.

How Well It Works

Research results vary on the effects of aspirin for PAD, but it may lower the risk for heart attack and stroke1.

Side Effects

Side effects of aspirin include:

  • Inflammation of the stomach (gastritis).
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • An allergic reaction.
  • In rare cases, bruising and bleeding (hemorrhage) in the brain or other internal organs of the body.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Aspirin may be combined with other antiplatelet or anticoagulant medicines.

Some doctors are concerned that long-term daily aspirin use can increase the risk of stomach problems. A smaller dose, such as a single low-dose aspirin, is often used and appears to be just as effective as a higher dose. Consult your doctor before you start taking aspirin on a regular basis.

Because of aspirin's effect on blood clotting, your doctor may want you to stop your aspirin at least 5 to 10 days before surgery and before any dental procedure that may cause excessive bleeding.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

References

Citations

  1. Berger JS, et al. (2009). Aspirin for the prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with peripheral artery disease: A meta-analysis of randomized trials. JAMA, 301(18): 1909–1919.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerDavid A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery
Last RevisedOctober 16, 2009

Last Revised: October 16, 2009

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

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