Aspirin‘s Role in Heart Disease Treatment Under Review Following Landmark Study
Nîmes,France – Long-held practices in the treatment of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) are facing potential upheaval following the results of a major academic study led by University Hospitals in Nîmes,Lille,and Brest. The research, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, suggests that combining aspirin with anticoagulant medications for CCS patients does not offer additional protection against heart attacks and considerably increases the risk of bleeding. This finding could lead to a shift in international cardiology recommendations, perhaps ending the routine prescription of aspirin for millions.
The Aquatic study, involving 872 patients across 51 cardiological centers, was halted early due to the conclusive nature of its findings. Researchers found that patients already on anticoagulants experienced no added benefit from aspirin in preventing recurrence of cardiac events, while their risk of bleeding rose substantially. “importantly, the prognosis of patients without aspirin was significantly better,” stated the Nîmes University Hospital.
Chronic coronary syndrome, encompassing angina and acute coronary syndrome, is the most prevalent chronic cardiovascular disease and a leading cause of death in developed nations, affecting an estimated 1.5 million people in France alone in 2018, according to the High Health Authority. Current prevention strategies often involve a dual approach: aspirin to reduce clot formation and an anticoagulant to thin the blood, particularly for those with heart rhythm disorders.
Professors Guillaume Cayla (Nîmes University Hospital), Martine Gilard (Brest University Hospital), and Gilles Lemesle (Lille University Hospital) spearheaded the research, collaborating with academic networks FACT, ACTION, and the French Society of Cardiology.The study’s results are already influencing future guidelines.
“The next international cardiology recommendations state that for chronic coronary patients, including those at high risk, aspirin should not be prescribed long-term along with anticoagulant treatment when this is necessary, particularly for atrial fibrillation,” the Nîmes University Hospital confirmed. This potential change in protocol represents a significant development in cardiovascular care,prioritizing patient safety and potentially improving outcomes for those living with CCS.
