A University of Michigan study suggests that taking one aspirin is safer than taking two blood thinners to reduce bleeding complications. The research underscores the importance of using aspirin in moderation for its benefits.
Using aspirin with blood thinners counterproductive
Aspirin offers various health benefits, potentially life-saving for those with prior strokes, heart attacks, or heart stents, improving blood flow. However, concerns arise when combining aspirin with other blood thinners.
Dr. Geoffrey Barnes, a cardiologist at the University of Michigan Health Frankel Cardiovascular Center, highlights that aspirin, once hailed as a universal remedy, isn’t universally beneficial. Collaborating with clinics, Barnes and other researchers aimed to minimize aspirin usage in patients where it might not be essential due to its potential to cause increased bleeding events.
In a study published in JAMA Network Open, researchers analyzed data from 6,700 individuals undergoing treatment for blood clots and irregular heart rhythms. Participants were prescribed warfarin and aspirin, regardless of heart disease history. Results revealed that 46.6% stopped taking aspirin, leading to a 32.3% reduction in bleeding complications. Not taking aspirin prevented one major bleeding event per 1,000 patients.
Dr. Barnes highlights the importance of reducing aspirin use among patients, particularly those on blood thinners, to prevent serious bleeding complications. Accelerating this reduction can potentially save lives, emphasizing the need for physicians and health systems to be more aware of when aspirin should and should not be prescribed in such cases.
Aspirin combination with anticoagulants not beneficial
Multiple studies have raised doubts about the need for aspirin alongside other blood thinners. One study observed increased emergency room visits among individuals taking warfarin and aspirin for irregular heartbeats or blood clotting, with a higher incidence of major bleeding. Another study indicated elevated bleeding risks for those using aspirin in combination with direct oral anticoagulants, without altering the risk of future blood clots.
Aspirin’s medical significance has decreased compared to a decade ago, as recent studies suggest limited benefits when added to existing anticoagulant treatments. The blood thinners patients are already on typically offer sufficient protection against clot formation, rendering additional aspirin less necessary.
