Is aspirin right for you?

Is aspirin right for you?

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Story Published: Nov 6, 2008 at 9:17 AM PDT

Story Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 5:13 AM PDT

By Herb Weisbaum

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On a doctor's advice, I take one every day for my heart -- an 81 milligram aspirin tablet.

This low-dose aspirin can help prevent blood clots that could lead to a heart attack or stroke.

But this simple therapy is not risk free. For some people aspirin can cause stomach irritation or potentially dangerous stomach bleeding.

So is aspirin right for you?

Consumer Reports on Health says men over 40 generally benefit. But for most women "the scales don't tip in aspirin's favor" until they reach 65.

The editors say most people with diabetes, as well as those with heart disease should be taking low-dose aspirin.

If a little is good, will a higher dose do more? NO. Consumer Reports says a larger pill is no better for your heart, but could increase the risk of complications.

You can take aspirin with other pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, the ingredient in Tylenol. But Consumer Reports says "it's not a good idea to combine aspirin with ibuprofen, the ingredient in Advil or naproxen, the ingredient in Aleve.

Before you start an aspirin program, talk to your doctor.

For More Information:

Consumer Reports: Consider Aspirin

Anticlotting drugs: Aspirin is still the best choice for most

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