What is aspirin? How does it work?

Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat fever, pain, and inflammation in the body. It also prevents blood clots and is used to prevent heart attack and stroke. Other NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Aleve, Motrin), indomethacin (Indocin), and nabumetone (Relafen).

NSAIDs block the enzyme that makes prostaglandins (cyclooxygenase), resulting in lower concentrations of prostaglandins, and reducing levels of inflammation, pain, and fever. Inhibition of prostaglandins also reduces the function of platelets and the ability of blood to clot. Aspirin inhibits the function of platelets in a manner different from other NSAIDs and its antithrombotic effects last longer than other NSAIDs.

What is Plavix? How does it work?

Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate) is an anti-platelet drug used to prevent blood clots. Plavix is used to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly in people with a recent history of stroke or heart attack, and those with peripheral vascular disease.

Plavix works by binding to the P2Y12 receptor on platelets, preventing adenosine diphosphate (ADP) from activating platelets. It belongs to a class of drugs called P2Y12 inhibitors. Other P2Y12 inhibitors include ticagrelor (Brilinta) and prasugrel (Effient). Clopidogrel is similar to ticlopidine (Ticlid) in chemical structure and in the way it works.

Aspirin side effects

Most people benefit from aspirin and other NSAIDs with few side effects. However, serious side effects can occur and generally tend to be dose-related. Therefore, it is advisable to use the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects.

The most common side effects of aspirin involve the gastrointestinal system and ringing in the ears.

Gastrointestinal side effects of aspirin

• Ulcers
• Abdominal burning
• Pain
• Cramping
• Nausea
• Gastritis
• Serious gastrointestinal bleeding
• Liver toxicity
• Rach
• Kidney Impairment
• Vertigo
• Dizziness

Plavix side effects

The tolerability of clopidogrel is similar to that of aspirin. Common side effects of clopidogrel are:

• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Itching
• Abdominal Pain
• Headache
• Chest Pain
• Muscle aches
• Dizziness

Side effects of Plavix that are more serious include:

• Severe bleeding
• Allergic reactions
• Pancreatitis
• Liver failure

Clinical trial shows that San Qi (notoginseng) has the solution. (https://www.thrombosisresearch.com/article/S0049-3848(16)30082-2/pdf)

This study was designed to investigate the effect of Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) on platelet adhesion to injured endothelial cells (ECs) and platelet activation induced by injured ECs, and to explore its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Results

Conclusions