Aggrenox (Dipyridamole/ASA)

Aggrenox Information:

Aggrenox (generic name: Dipyridamole/Aspirin, also known as Asasantin Retard, Arreno) is used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients who have had previous blood clots, or a transient ischemic attack also known as TIA or “mini stroke”. Aggrenox contains the active ingredients Dipyridamole and Aspirin. Dipyridamole prevents the platelets in the blood of the patient from sticking together, and Aspirin thins the blood as well as reducing substances in the body that cause pain, fever and inflammation. Aspiring belongs to the group of drugs called salicylates. A stroke is commonly caused by a blockage in the blood stream, which evertually starves the oxygen to the brain and thus causes a stroke. The blockages can be caused by platelets in the blood sticking together to form a thick mass which can eventually restrict blood flow in the veins. This is known as thrombosis. Previously aspirin was commonly prescribed alone to reduce the risk of stroke. However clinical trials showed that Aggrenox when given to the patients twice daily was more effective than aspirin alone for the reduction of the risk of stroke caused by blood clots. Aggrenox is approved by the Food and Drugs Association in the USA. Symptoms of blood clots and stroke are one sided weakness or sudden paralysis (inability to move a part of the body) especially on one side, changes in sense of touch, problems using your hands, loss of bladder control and stiff neck.

Aggrenox Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Aggrenox including upset stomach, mild heartburn, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, joint pain, drowsiness and headache. More serious side effects may include weakness or fainting, changes in colour or texture of stools, coughing up blood, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe nausea, vomiting and stomach pain, fever lasting more than 3 days, swelling or pain lasting more than 10 days, hearing problems and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). If you experience any side effects you must seek medical attention immediately for safety.

Aggrenox Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed Aggrenox to you. Directions and dosage information can also be found on the pack or leaflet inside the pack. Aggrenox comes in capsule form. You should swallow Aggrenox whole with a glass of water. Do not break or open the capsules as this may cause too much of the drug to be released at once. Aggrenox should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat.

Aggrenox Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Aggrenox, you should avoid taking it and inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions including asthma, nasal polyps, and a history of allergy to NSAIDs, a history of stomach ulcers of bleeding, a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia, heart disease, congestive heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease or low blood pressure. You must consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications as they may interact with Aggrenox, including acetazolamide, methotrexate, oral diabetic medications, gout medication, ACE inhibitors, Alzheimer’s medication, beta blockers, diuretics, seizure medications and other NSAIDs or aspirin. It is important that you inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding as Aggrenox may cause harm to unborn and new born babies. Aspirin or products containing aspirin should not be given to child who has a fever, especially if they also have flu symptoms or chicken pox.