Aggrenox medicine is a combination of aspirin and dipyridamole. According to Drugs.com, an online drug reference, aspirin belongs to a class of medications called salicylates, which lower the amount of chemicals in the body that cause increased temperature, pain and inflammation. Dipyridamole prevents platelets in the blood from forming clots. Aggrenox is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Health care providers prescribe this medication to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with a history of blood clots or transient ischemic attacks, which are also referred to as TIAs or mini-strokes.
Before Taking Aggrenox
Drugs.com recommends notifying a health care provider prior to taking Aggrenox if any of the following conditions apply: bleeding ulcers, bleeding conditions such as hemophilia, heart disease, congestive heart failure, heart attack, liver disease, kidney disease or low blood pressure.
Important Facts
According to Drugs.com, Aggrenox is not safe to use during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Do not take prescription or over-the-counter medications without first notifying a health care provider. Many medications contain ingredients that when mixed with Aggrenox can increase the incidence of bleeding. Alcohol should not be consumed while taking Aggrenox because it can cause stomach bleeding. The aspirin contained in Aggrenox can cause Reye's syndrome, a deadly disorder in children.
Proper Use
Mayo Clinic states a constant level of this medication should be maintained in the blood. Take Aggrenox at the same time each day with or without food. Do not chew, break or crush this medication. Drugs.com recommends taking this medication with 8 oz. of water. Aggrenox should be stored in a dry place at room temperature. If a dose of this medication is skipped, take the missed dose as soon as possible unless it is time for the regularly scheduled dose. Two doses of Aggrenox should not be taken at the same time.
Side Effects
According to Mayo Clinic, the most common side effects caused by Aggrenox are stomach pain and vomiting. Less common side effects include rectal bleeding, nosebleeds, black stools, confusion, seizures, trouble breathing, trouble speaking, visual disturbances, memory loss, red or purple spots on the skin, slowed speech, chest tightness, bruising or bleeding, and wheezing. Drugs.com lists additional side effects such as weakness or fainting, nausea, increased temperature that lasts more than three days, swelling or pain lasting more than 10 days, and ringing in the ears.
Dosing
Mayo Clinic states Aggrenox is available by prescription in the form of capsules and extended-release capsules. Each Aggrenox capsule contains 25 mg of aspirin and 200 mg of dipyridamole. Health care providers prescribe this medication according to patient needs. Typical dosing for Aggrenox is one capsule twice a day---once in the morning and then again in the evening. Do not stop taking Aggrenox without notifying a health care provider.
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