It irreversibly stops this enzyme from working. Many large clinical trials have studied the effectiveness of aspirin in reducing the risk of stroke. Clear benefits have been found in patients who used aspirin in secondary stroke prevention. Interestingly, there is still debate over the best daily dosage level of aspirin for secondary prevention. Studies have suggested doses ranging from 80mg, about the level of one baby aspirin, to 1,300mg a day, the equivalent of four adult aspirins.
Side effects can include ulcer disease and gastrointestinal or other bleeding.
Some of aspirin's side effects on the stomach can be minimized by using it in a coated or buffered formulation. Clinical trials have indicated a benefit for Ticlid in secondary stroke prevention, and suggested in some groups, it may be superior to aspirin. Ticlid is taken twice a day, in oral formulation. Blood monitoring must be done routinely, for every 2 weeks during the first 3 months of treatment. Side effects also include gastrointestinal symptoms , bleeding and skin rashes.