Breakthrough Testing for Patients on Aspirin Therapy for Preventing Hear...( A new test h...),Health

A new test has been developed to measure the effectiveness of Aspirin Therapy, based on research showing that up to 25% of patients are not experiencing the benefits of taking aspirin on a daily basis. The Aspirin Response Test gives the physician an opportunity to alter treatment methods for the patient, resulting in further prevention of heart attacks.

Los Angeles (PRWEB) October 21, 2008 -- Millions of Americans are taking aspirin to help prevent heart attacks and strokes. But what is not generally known is that up to 25% of patients on aspirin therapy receive little or no benefit from it. And because aspirin can cause stomach upset, ulcers, and even gastrointestinal bleeding, this question has become a significant medical concern. Now, breakthrough research may have an answer, according to Dr. Joseph Sciabbarrasi, an integrative medical doctor practicing in West Los Angeles. "We now have a simple urine test to determine if aspirin is actually helping prevent blood clots from forming."

The new Aspirin Response Test (ART) measures a substance, thromboxane B2 which is associated with the formation of blood clots. Aspirin is supposed to reduce the formation of this substance in the body. "We know that aspirin is working when thromboxane B2 levels are very low," says Dr. Sciabbarrasi. "If they are not, a physician can look for ways to reduce risk factors such as high cholesterol or blood sugar. It may be necessary to change the dose of aspirin or consider another medication as well."

The test performed by Spectracell Laboratories in Houston, was prompted by research whic
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