Aggrenox is a brand-name combination of aspirin and dipyridamole and belongs to a class of drugs called antiplatelets. Aggrenox is used to prevent formation of blood clots in blood vessels. Blood clots can block the flow of blood to the brain, which can lead to stroke. Aggrenox is mainly prescribed to patients who are at high risk for blood clots or stroke. Aggrenox should not be taken at the same time with vitamin K.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K, or phytonadine, is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your blood clot. Without vitamin K, your blood cannot clot properly. Vitamin K should not be taken at the same time with Aggrenox because the vitamin reduces the therapeutic effects of the drug. Vitamin K is found in OTC supplements and foods. Avoid taking OTC vitamin K supplements or multivitamins without first consulting your doctor.
Dietary Sources
Your doctor may advise you to limit or avoid vitamin K-rich foods while you are taking Aggrenox. Consult your doctor about the amount of vitamin K rich foods you should eat every day. Natural sources of vitamin K include spinach, broccoli, cabbage, kale, asparagus, dark green lettuce, beef liver, eggs, milk, vegetable oils and green tea, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Administration
Aggrenox is available as a capsule that is usually taken by mouth twice a day, according to PubMedHealth. The capsule should be swallowed whole without crushing or chewing. Take Aggrenox at the same time every day to keep blood levels of the drug constant. If you have a history of vitamin K deficiency, inform your doctor before Aggrenox is prescribed. Severe bleeding can result if you take Aggrenox while you have vitamin K deficiency, according to Drugs.com.
Effects
When taking Aggrenox, you may experience common side effects such as stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache and muscle pain. Abnormal bleeding can also occur when you are taking Aggrenox. Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms of abnormal bleeding such as nosebleeds, purple or red spots on the skin, vomiting blood, bloody urine and blood in the stool.
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