Aggrenox (Aspirin, Extended-Release Dipyridamole) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 23, 2012

Aggrenox

Stroke »

What is a stroke?

Brain cell function requires a constant delivery of oxygen and glucose from the bloodstream. A stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted, causing brain cells to die. Blood flow can be compromised by a variety of mechanisms.

Blockage of an artery

Narrowing of the small arteries within the brain can cause a lacunar stroke, (lacune means "empty space"). Blockage of a single arteriole can affect a tiny area of brain causing that tissue to die (infarct).
Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) leading to the brain. There are four major blood vessels that supply the brain with blood. The anterior circulation of the brain that controls most motor activity, sensation, thought, speech, and emotion is supplied by the carotid arteries. The posterior circulation, which supplies the brainstem and the cer...

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Aggrenox

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Aggrenox Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

ASPIRIN/DIPYRIDAMOLE SUSTAINED-RELEASE - ORAL

(AS-pir-in/DYE-pir-ID-uh-mole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aggrenox

USES: This medication is used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients who have had "mini-strokes" (transient ischemic attacks) or a previous stroke due to a blood clot and are at high risk for another stroke. It contains two medications: a very low dose of aspirin (25 milligrams per tablet) and dipyridamole in a slow-release form.

Low-dose aspirin and dipyridamole are anti-platelet drugs that work to keep blood flowing to the brain by stopping platelets from clumping together. This helps prevent the platelets from forming blood clots, which can lodge in the brain and cause a certain type of stroke (ischemic stroke).

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking this product and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, with or without food, usually 1 capsule twice a day (morning and evening). Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush or chew the capsule because this will destroy the slow release of the drug and may increase the risk of side effects.

Take this medication with a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

This capsule is not interchangeable with doses of aspirin and dipyridamole given as separate tablets since the same strength and slow-release dosage form are not available as individual products. Consult your pharmacist for more information.