The interaction of varying doses of dipyridamole and acetyl salicylic acid on the inhibition of platelet functions and their effect on bleeding time.

ABSTRACT

1 In normal volunteers maximum reductions in platelet functions, collagen aggregation, adhesion and PF4 availability, were achieved using combined doses of 50 mg three times daily dipyridamole + 180 mg ASA or 75 mg three times daily dipyridamole + 120 mg ASA daily. 2 These doses did not prolong the bleeding time. 3 A synergistic effect has been demonstrated with 25 mg dipyridamole three times daily and 60 mg ASA. 4 At higher doses the effects on platelet functions were additive up to the maximal response. 5 The effect of low doses of ASA on platelet function was cumulative. 6 As lower doses of ASA in the combination studied inhibit platelet functions maximally without altering the bleeding time and probably without inhibiting prostacyclin, we suggest that these combinations of dipyridamole and ASA merit consideration in future clinical trials.