Aggrenox (Dipyridamole/Asa)

Do’s

• Take Aggrenox exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually twice daily (morning and evening).
• Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water (8 ounces).
• Take it with or without food, depending on your healthcare provider's instructions.
• Use this medication regularly at the same times each day for maximum benefit.
• Consult your healthcare provider if you experience severe headaches after starting Aggrenox.

Don'ts

• Crush, chew, or break open the capsules. This can release all the medication at once, increasing side effects.
• Substitute Aggrenox with separate aspirin and dipyridamole tablets. They won't provide the same controlled release effect.
• Stop taking Aggrenox without consulting your healthcare provider.

Common side effects of Aggrenox may include:

• Headache
• Throat irritation
• Hoarseness
• Cough
• Sinusitis
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bronchitis
• Nasopharyngitis (common cold)
• Flu-like symptoms
• Back pain
• Joint pain
• Muscle pain

Serious side effects of Aggrenox:

• Easy bleeding or bruising
• Uncontrolled bleeding from gums or nose
• Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Signs of kidney problems, such as changes in urine output

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Aggrenox,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, particularly to Aggrenox components (dipyridamole, aspirin, or other salicylates/ NSAIDs) and any other allergies you may have.

Inform your healthcare provider  of your medical history, especially if you have:

• Aspirin-sensitive asthma
• Bleeding problems
• Low blood pressure
• Heart problems (angina, heart attack)
• Stomach ulcers or heartburn
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Myasthenia gravis
• Nasal polyps
• History of bleeding in the brain

Aggrenox may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you are sure you can do them safely. Limit alcohol consumption and talk to your healthcare provider about marijuana use.

Aggrenox may increase your risk of stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol intake and quit smoking.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including Aggrenox, before any surgery or medical procedure. Your healthcare provider may instruct you to stop taking Aggrenox before surgery.

Aggrenox may not be sufficient to prevent heart attack. Consult your healthcare provider for more information.

Children and teenagers under 18 should not take Aggrenox, especially if they have chickenpox, flu, or an undiagnosed illness, or have recently been vaccinated.

Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects, particularly dizziness and bleeding.

Pregnant women should only take Aggrenox if clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Aggrenox passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.