What is Aggrenox?

Aggrenox (Dipyridamole + ASA) is a combination medication combining aspirin and dipyridamole and is used to reduce the risk of stroke or “mini-stroke” (transient ischemic attack or TIA).

How does Aggrenox work?

The two medications which combine to make Aggrenox work together in order to reduce the risk of a stroke or “mini-stroke”. Aspirin reduces the substances in the body which cause pain, fever and inflammation while dipyridamole works to keep blood flowing to the brain by stopping platelets in your blood from forming blood clots by clumping together.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Aggrenox should be taken orally and can be taken either with or without food. Aggrenox should be taken with a full glass of water and is typically prescribed to be taken twice daily, in the morning and evening.
• Aggrenox should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed as this can release all of the drug at once increasing the risk of side effects.
• Your Aggrenox dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to treatment. You should not change or increase your Aggrenox dosage unless advised by a doctor.
• This medication is most effective when taken regularly. Try to take Aggrenox at the same time each day.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of asthma, bleeding problems, low blood pressure, heart problems, stomach problems, kidney disease, liver disease, myasthenia gravis, growths in the nose or bleeding in the brain.
• If you are using marijuana.
• If you are breast feeding.

Also be aware that:

• Aggrenox may make you dizzy. Do not drive, operate machinery or do any other activity requiring alertness until you can do it safely.
• This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. You should stop smoking and limit your alcohol use while taking Aggrenox.
• This medication contains aspirin but not enough to prevent heart attack. Ask your doctor for more information if you need aspirin to prevent heart attack. Anyone under the age of 18 should not take aspirin if they have chickenpox, flu, any undiagnosed illness or if they have recently received a vaccination.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication.
• Aggrenox should only be used when clearly needed during pregnancy.

Common Aggrenox side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Headache.
• Heartburn.
• Upset stomach, stomach pain, nausea or diarrhea.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following Aggrenox side effects:

• New or worsening chest pain.
• Lightheadedness or feeling as if you may pass out.
• Hearing problems or ringing in your ears.
• Symptoms of liver problems such as upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools or jaundice.
• Symptoms of stomach bleeding such as stomach pain, severe heartburn, bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
• Symptoms of bleeding in the brain such as confusion, memory problems, severe headache or fainting.

Q: What are the other names for Aggrenox?

A: Aggrenox is also be known as Asasantin SR internationally. Asasantin SR is still the brand name Aggrenox and is not a generic alternative. Generic Aggrenox is known as Dipyridamole + ASA.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Aggrenox?

A: If you miss a dose of Aggrenox, take the medication as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose then skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at one time.