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Aspirin: plasma concentration and effects
Thrombosis Research. Supplement
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) effectively prevents blood clots by irreversibly inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase. A low daily dose of 0.5 mg/kg suppresses platelet aggregation without impacting prostacyclin formation.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Acetylsalicylic acid's (ASA) antithrombotic action is tied to its chemical reactivity.
- The acetyl group of ASA irreversibly modifies biological targets, including cyclo-oxygenase.
- The body rapidly eliminates ASA due to widespread esterase activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the pharmacokinetic factors influencing ASA's bioavailability and efficacy.
- To determine an optimal ASA dosage for antithrombotic effects while minimizing side effects.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing pharmacokinetic data for ASA.
- Analysis of studies correlating ASA dosage with platelet aggregation and prostacyclin formation.
Main Results:
- ASA's pharmacokinetics are influenced by formulation and food intake.
- A clear link between plasma ASA levels and therapeutic response is not established.
- A dosage of approximately 0.5 mg/kg/day effectively inhibits platelet aggregation.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose ASA (0.5 mg/kg/day) achieves antithrombotic effects by suppressing platelet aggregation.
- This dosage range appears to avoid interference with crucial prostacyclin formation.