Aspirin Resistance Growing Concern For Cardiovascular Patients

For many years aspirin has been the staple in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease. But what happens if over time patients begin to develop a resistance to the first coined “wonder” drug? Will there be an increase in healthcare visits as well as financial ramifications? My guess… yes!

Resistance over time. The frequency of aspirin resistance may increase over time. Several studies have demonstrated a progressive reduction in aspirin’s ability to inhibit platelet aggregation over long-term treatment.^23,58,59 There may be a role for platelet sensitivity testing in aspirin responders who receive chronic therapy.

There is substantial research to validate the claim of aspirin resistance. Many studies have looked at outcomes and prognosis’, and there seems to be a direct correlation. What is one to do if they develop aspirin resistance? Researchers are currently looking down that avenue as well.

The clinical management of patients with aspirin resistance is still under investigation. Theoretically, the addition of thienopyridines such as ticlopidine and clopidogrel may seem to be an ideal method of overcoming aspirin resistance since they inhibit platelet aggregation independently of aspirin.

Researchers are still determining the exact point within platelet aggregation, clotting, where aspirin resistance occurs. For now, we know that outcomes will be compromised by resistance, but there are alternative ways to provide treatment for these patients.

via Science Daily