See the DrugPatentWatch profile for aspirin

After reviewing the available information, it appears that the effectiveness of aspirin in preventing heart attacks is not significantly affected by enteric coating.

Aspirin works by inhibiting the production of hormone-like compounds called prostaglandins, which are involved in the clotting process. By preventing the formation of blood clots, aspirin can help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Enteric coating is a type of coating applied to oral medications to protect the stomach from irritation caused by the active ingredient. It is often used with aspirin to prevent stomach upset. However, some studies have suggested that enteric coating may delay the absorption of aspirin, which could potentially reduce its effectiveness in preventing heart attacks.

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, "Aspirin is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration, and peak plasma levels are achieved within 30 minutes when aspirin is given on an empty stomach" [1]. This suggests that enteric coating may delay the absorption of aspirin, but it is unclear whether this delay is sufficient to impact its effectiveness in preventing heart attacks.

A review of clinical studies published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that "enteric-coated aspirin formulations have been shown to delay the onset of antiplatelet activity, but the clinical significance of this delay is unclear" [2]. The authors of the review noted that "the majority of studies have found no significant difference in the efficacy of enteric-coated and non-enteric-coated aspirin in the prevention of cardiovascular events" [2].

In summary, while enteric coating may delay the absorption of aspirin, it does not appear to significantly impact its effectiveness in preventing heart attacks. However, it is important to note that individual responses to medications can vary, and patients should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate dosage form and regimen for their individual needs.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Aspirin. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/aspirin>.
2. Fihn, S. D., Gardin, J. M., Abrams, J., Berry, J. D., Blumenthal, R. S., Carney, R. M., ... & 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. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2014.07.017 (<https://www.jacc.org/doi/full/10.1016/j.jacc.2014.07.017>)