Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole 

Why is Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole  prescribed?

Aggrenox  is prescribed  to stave off a  stroke in people who have had a "mini-stroke" (transient ischemic attack)  or a full-scale stroke due to a blood clot blocking an artery in the brain. 

Both the ingredients in Aggrenox prevent the formation of clots by interfering with the tendency of blood platelets to clump together. However, the two ingredients together  are more effective  at preventing strokes than either ingredient taken alone. Aggrenox doesn't eliminate the possibility  of a stroke; but it does reduce the odds by almost six percentage points during the first two years of treatment. 

Most important fact about Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole 

Because of the aspirin in Aggrenox, this product cannot be used by people who have an allergy to aspirin and  other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen,  or by people who suffer asthma attacks after taking aspirin. 

How should you take Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole? 

Aggrenox should be  taken once  in the morning and once in the evening. The capsule  should be swallowed whole without chewing. This drug may be taken with  or without food. 

• If  you miss a dose:  Take it  as soon as you remember. If  it is almost time for  your next dose, skip  the one  you missed  and go back  to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time. 
• Storage instructions:  Store at room temperature and protect from excessive moisture. 

What side effects may occur? 

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe  for you to continue taking Aggrenox. 

• Side effects may include:Abdominal pain, back pain, bleeding, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, indigestion, joint pain, nausea, pain, vomiting 

Why should Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole not be prescribed? 

You should not take Aggrenox if you have ever had an allergic reaction to aspirin, dipyridamole, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. You should also avoid Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole if you have asthma, a persistent runny nose, or nasal polyps, or if you have severe liver or kidney disease. 

Aspirin can cause a dangerous brain disorder called Reye's Syndrome  in children and teenagers who have a viral illness. Since Aggrenox contains aspirin,  it is not recommended for children or teenagers. 

Special warnings about Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole 

The aspirin in Aggrenox can cause stomach bleeding. You should avoid Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole if you have a stomach ulcer,  and should use it with care if you have liver disease or any kind  of bleeding disorder. (Regular heavy drinking increases the danger  of bleeding problems.) Also, be sure to tell  the doctor  that you are taking Aggrenox if you have a medical emergency  or plan  to have surgery or dental work. 

The dipyridamole in Aggrenox causes blood vessels to expand and should be used cautiously by people with heart disease, especially those with chest pain (unstable angina) or a recent heart attack. It can make chest pain worse and trigger episodes  of very low blood pressure. 

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole 

• If Aggrenox is taken with certain other drugs,  the effects of either could be increased, decreased,  or altered. It  is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Aggrenox with the following: 
• ACE inhibitors (heart and blood pressure medications such as captopril and enalapril maleate) 
• Acetazolamide
• Blood pressure medications classified as beta-blockers, including acebutolol hydrochloride, atenolol, and propranolol hydrochloride 
• Blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin sodium 
• Gout medications 
• Methotrexate
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, and indomethacin 
• Oral diabetes drugs such as chlorpropamide and glyburide 
• Seizure medications such as phenytoin sodium and valproic acid 
• Water pills (diuretics) such as furosemide  and hydrochlorothiazide 

If you suffer from  the muscle disease myasthenia gravis, treatment with Aggrenox may interfere with your drug therapy. 

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding 

Aggrenox can seriously harm a developing baby, leading to low birth weight, bleeding in  the brain, birth defects,  and even death. Aggrenox should not be used  during the final 3 months  of pregnancy,  and should be taken during  the first 6 months only if its benefits outweigh the possibility of harm  to the developing baby. Notify  your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or plan  to become pregnant. 

Use Aggrenox with caution if you are breastfeeding a baby, since Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole appears in breast milk. 

Recommended dosage for Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole 

ADULTS 

The recommended dosage of Aggrenox is one capsule twice a day, in the morning and evening. 

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. 

• Symptoms of Aggrenox overdose may include: Dizziness, flushes, irregular heartbeat, restlessness, ringing in the ears, sweating, warm feeling, weakness 
  

More Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole resources 

• Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole Side Effects 
• aspirin/dipyridamole Drug Interactions 

Compare Aspirin with Extended-release dipyridamole with other medications for the treatment of: 
Ischemic Stroke, Prophylaxis