SMOKING WEAKENS ANTICLOTTING EFFECT OF ASPIRIN

Smokers may be12 times more resistantto the effectsof aspirin. Researchersrecently publishedthe findings ofa study designed to determine whichfactors predicted a poor response toaspirin. One third of the 123 subjectswere smokers. Patients were evaluatedbased on the dose of aspirin they weretaking. Eight of the 66 patients takinglow-dose (81 mg) aspirin were found tobe resistant to its effects. When thedose was increased to 325 mg, onlyone patient remained resistant. In thegroup that took 325 mg, 3 were resistant.Adding a dose of clopidogrelresulted in a response in 2 of these 3patients.

The authors concluded that smokingmay contribute to aspirin resistance.This finding further reinforces the needfor smoking cessation.

Dr. Garrett is a clinical pharmacistpractitioner at Cornerstone Health Carein High Point, NC.