Aspirin

Key points

• Aspirin irreversibly blocks COX-1 and COX-2 → ↓ thromboxane A2 in platelets → ↓ platelet aggregation.
• MHRA 2010 reminder: aspirin is NOT licensed for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.
• Established indications: secondary prevention — stroke, TIA, IHD, PVD (unless contraindicated).
• Potentiates oral hypoglycaemics, warfarin and steroids.
• Aspirin can be continued normally for dental procedures.

Decision points in this pathway

• Primary or secondary prevention?

The full step-by-step algorithm, including what to do at each branch, opens in the app for approved members.