Aspirin

Aspirin is an anti-platelet medication that helps prevent blood clots. In neuro-ophthalmology, it's used for vascular conditions and prevention of stroke after transient vision loss.

Common Uses

• After transient vision loss (amaurosis fugax)
• After retinal artery occlusion
• Microvascular cranial nerve palsy
• Stroke prevention
• Heart disease prevention

How It Works

• Inhibits platelet clumping
• Reduces blood clot formation
• Prevents vessel blockage
• Single dose effect lasts days (platelets affected for their lifespan)

Typical Dosing

• Low dose: 81 mg daily (baby aspirin)
• Sometimes 325 mg
• Take with food to reduce stomach upset
• Consistent daily dosing important

Side Effects

Common

• Stomach upset
• Heartburn
• Easy bruising
• Minor bleeding

Serious

• GI bleeding
• Hemorrhagic stroke (rare)
• Allergic reactions

Precautions

Avoid if:

• Active GI bleeding
• Bleeding disorder
• Aspirin allergy
• Before some surgeries

Use Caution if:

• History of ulcers
• On other blood thinners
• Kidney disease
• Asthma (some people)

Drug Interactions

• Other blood thinners (increased bleeding)
• Ibuprofen (may reduce aspirin effect if taken first)
• NSAIDs (increased GI bleeding)

Important Points

• Don't stop suddenly before surgery without medical advice
• Tell all doctors and dentists you take aspirin
• Report unusual bleeding
• Prescription medications may replace aspirin for some patients