From the Research
Aspirin is not contraindicated in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Patients with MS can generally take aspirin when needed for typical indications such as pain relief, fever reduction, or cardiovascular protection. The standard dosing applies: 325-650 mg every 4-6 hours for pain or fever, or 81-325 mg daily for cardiovascular protection. There are no known interactions between aspirin and common MS medications like interferon beta, glatiramer acetate, fingolimod, or other disease-modifying therapies. In fact, some research suggests that aspirin's anti-inflammatory properties might potentially be beneficial in MS, though this is not an established treatment approach 1.
However, as with any patient, those with MS should be aware of aspirin's common side effects including gastric irritation, increased bleeding risk, and potential for Reye's syndrome in children. If MS patients have other comorbidities like gastric ulcers or bleeding disorders, the usual contraindications for aspirin would apply, but these are not specific to their MS diagnosis. Recent studies have investigated the use of aspirin in combination with other antiplatelet agents, such as clopidogrel, for preventing cardiovascular events in high-risk patients 2, 3. While these studies have shown a reduced risk of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke with combined therapy, they also highlight an increased risk of major bleeding.
In the context of MS, the potential benefits and risks of aspirin therapy must be carefully considered, taking into account the individual patient's risk factors and comorbidities. Aspirin's potential to ameliorate the disease process in MS, as suggested by its effects on inflammation and mitochondrial complex I activity, is an area of ongoing research 1. Nevertheless, the current evidence does not support the use of aspirin as a disease-modifying therapy in MS. Instead, aspirin should be used in MS patients for its established indications, such as pain relief, fever reduction, or cardiovascular protection, with careful monitoring for potential side effects.
Key points to consider:
- Aspirin is not contraindicated in MS patients
- Standard dosing applies for typical indications
- No known interactions with common MS medications
- Potential benefits and risks must be carefully considered
- Aspirin should be used for established indications, with careful monitoring for side effects 1, 4, 2, 3, 5.