Aspirin for Diabetes

Overview

Aspirin is available over the counter. Some people with diabetes take Aspirin to lower their risk for heart attack and stroke.

Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is believed that Aspirin helps prevent blood clots from forming and causing heart attacks or strokes.

How do I take it?

Most people who take Aspirin to lower their risk for heart attack and stroke take a low dose (81 milligrams) once a day.

Aspirin comes as a tablet or caplet.

Side effects

The FDA-approved label for Aspirin lists common side effects including bleeding, gastrointestinal ulcers, abdominal pain, upset stomach, rash, drowsiness, and nausea.

For answers to frequently asked questions about exposure to aspirin during pregnancy and breastfeeding, visit the experts at MothertoBaby.org.