Vitamin E was found to enhance aspirin\’s ability to prevent blood clots. Research reported that vitamin E (50 and 100 μM) inhibited aggregation of platelets. In addition, vitamin E was associated with an 80% reduction in platelet adhesion to collagen (a protein). Platelet adhesion to collagen is fundamental during blood clotting. (15)
Assessment and Plan: Aspirin
- The primary physician may take into consideration age, medical history, and risk factors for cardiovascular disease or stroke to determine whether or not aspirin will benefit you for prevention of stroke or cardiovascular disease.
- Avoid herbs, supplements or medications which may have an interaction with aspirin to increase risk of bleeding.
- For a history of headaches without history of gastrointestinal bleeding or contraindications to aspirin, aspirin combined with caffeine and acetaminophen (Tylenol) is more effective than any of these agents taken alone for headache..