PREVENTION OF REINFARCTION THROUGH 100 MG OR 30 MG ACETYLSALICYLIC-ACID PER DAY

The prevention of heart infarction with 100 mg aspirin is common pract ice in Germany, in spite of the fact that it is based on only two smal l studies, the results of which are not generalized. Over 14 years, se veral experimental and clinical studies have shown that 20-30 mg aspir in/d for pharmacokinetic reason selectively inhibit the thromboxane sy nthesis while the endogenous prostacyclin synthesis remains intact. Pr ostacyclin plays an important cardioprotective role for the ischemic h eart, having antiplatelet and antifibrillatory effects, potentiates th e antiplatelet effect of the nitrovasodilators and nitric oxide, and i ncreases the release of adenosine. A superior preventive action and lo wer side effects of 30 mg/d aspirin in direct comparison with higher d oses was first proved by the Cottbus reinfarction study. The 30 mg asp irin tablet per day ought to replace the present prevention with highe r doses.