Dive Brief:
- A study published in the journal Circulation finds that low-dose aspirin is more effective than placebo -- but less effective than warfarin and direct thrombin inhibitors (DTIs) -- in preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other thromboembolic events.
- The study was trying to assess the efficacy of low-dose aspirin in preventing thromboembolism, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and myocardial infarction.
- The researchers concluded that aspirin is a cheap and effective treatment that could save millions of dollars spent on treating multiple recurring clots.
Dive Insight:
At least six months of anticoagulation therapy is recommended for patients who experiences DVT or an embolism. The new study found that low-dose aspirin substantially decreases the risk of thromboembolic events by one-third, compared with placebo.
By contrast, warfarin and DTIs decrease risk by approximately 80%. However, not everyone who needs anticoagulation therapy can afford prescription options, or they may not be able to tolerate the stronger therapy or comply with the necessary logistics. The study authors assert that, in countries where prolonged anticoagulation treatment is too expensive, aspirin is an ideal treatment option both clinically and in terms of cost-effectiveness.