…So why do people keep taking it?
Another article in this month’s “JAMA” concluded that low-dose aspirin not only showed the same results as placebo, but actually caused more bleeding (such as hemorrhagic stroke) in people who had a stroke anyway. There have been several studies like this over the past few years, yet people are still taking it, there are still commercials about it and doctors are still recommending it. Why? I’m not sure. But for a medical community so gaga over evidence-based medicine, you’d think they’d get on the bandwagon!
So, if you think you’re having a heart attack – aspirin is good to take on the way to the hospital to help prevent major damage. But aspirin on a daily basis may not be right for you. If you’ve been taking aspirin on a regular basis because of this prevention myth, talk to your doctor before you stop taking it. Sudden withdrawal from long-term aspirin use can actually increase your risk for a blood clot! Best thing to do is have a conversation with your doc about it…and soon.
Reference: JAMA. 2010;303(9):841-848
