Aspirin: Should it Stay or Should it Go?

Course overview

For decades, pharmacy team members have provided patients with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), also known as aspirin. It is one of the most prescribed analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory agents. It has also been used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular mortality, and colorectal cancer. However, in recent years, scientists and clinicians have questioned whether the benefits of aspirin use outweigh the risks. The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) commissioned a systematic review on the effectiveness of aspirin in reducing the risk of CVD events (myocardial infarction and stroke), cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality in persons without a history of CVD. New guidance from the USPSTF recommends against using low-dose aspirin in patients over 60 for primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Low-dose aspirin continues to be recommended for secondary prevention for patients with ASCVD or who have existing heart problems. Safety considerations for patients taking aspirin and patient counseling tips are also discussed.