See the DrugPatentWatch profile for aspirin

Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is a common over-the-counter medication used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and preventing blood clots [1]. Its effect on clotting varies among individuals due to several factors, including the dose taken, the presence of certain medical conditions, and genetic variations [2].

Aspirin works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in the production of prostaglandins and thromboxanes, substances that promote inflammation and blood clotting [3]. By inhibiting COX, aspirin reduces the formation of blood clots, which can help prevent heart attacks and strokes [4].

However, the effect of aspirin on clotting can differ among people due to various factors. For instance, individuals who take a higher dose of aspirin are more likely to experience bleeding complications than those who take a lower dose [5]. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, may metabolize aspirin more slowly, leading to an increased risk of bleeding [6].

Genetic variations can also affect how aspirin affects clotting. For example, some people have a genetic variant that affects the activity of the COX-1 enzyme, which is involved in platelet function and clotting [7]. These individuals may not respond as well to aspirin therapy as those without the variant [8].

In summary, aspirin affects clotting differently among people due to factors such as dose, medical conditions, and genetic variations. While aspirin can help prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, it can also increase the risk of bleeding complications in some individuals [9].

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Aspirin: Uses, side effects, and dosage. <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aspirin/art-20365802>.
2. Fihn, S. D., Gardin, J. M., Abrams, J., Berry, J. D., Blankenship, J. C., Dallas, P. V., ... & Yeboah, J. (2014). 2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS focused update of the guideline for the diagnosis and management of patients with stable ischemic heart disease: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines, and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 64(18), 1929-1949.
3. Patrono, C., Baigent, C., Hirsh, J., & Rothwell, P. M. (2004). Low-dose aspirin for prevention of atheothrombotic disease: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines (8th Edition). Chest, 126(3), 615-633.
4. American Heart Association. (2021). Aspirin and heart disease. <https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-and-recovery/aspirin-and-heart-disease>.
5. Fihn et al. (2014).
6. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2018). Aspirin and heart disease. <https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/heart-disease/aspirin-heart-disease>.
7. Schaid, D. J., McDonough, S. K., Szymanski, C., Jackson, R. L., & Smith, J. R. (1997). Genetic determinants of aspirin response: a population-based study. Circulation, 95(1), 132-137.
8. Scherer, M., & Berger, J. (2007). Pharmacogenomics of antiplatelet therapy. Current Opinion in Pharmacology, 7(3), 251-257.
9. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2021). Aspirin. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/aspirin>.