From the Guidelines
Aspirin 325mg and atorvastatin 80mg should be considered for patients with high-risk conditions, including those with a history of coronary artery disease, stroke, or transient ischemic attack, as well as those with high-risk factors such as age ≥65 years, diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. These conditions and factors increase the risk of cardiovascular events, and the use of aspirin and atorvastatin has been shown to reduce this risk 1. The 2021 guideline for the prevention of stroke in patients with stroke and transient ischemic attack recommends the use of aspirin 325mg and atorvastatin 80mg for secondary stroke prevention in patients with high-risk conditions 1. Key factors to consider when prescribing aspirin and atorvastatin include:
- Age ≥65 years
- History of coronary artery disease, stroke, or transient ischemic attack
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Chronic kidney disease
- Current smoking The use of aspirin and atorvastatin in these patients can help reduce the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events and improve outcomes 1. It is also important to consider the potential risks and contraindications of aspirin and atorvastatin, such as aspirin allergy, active bleeding, or severe liver disease, and to adjust the dosage and treatment plan accordingly 1. Overall, the use of aspirin 325mg and atorvastatin 80mg is a key component of the management strategy for patients with high-risk conditions, and can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and improve outcomes.
From the Research
Patient Eligibility for Aspirin and Atorvastatin
The following patients may be considered for aspirin 325mg and atorvastatin 80mg:
- Patients with myocardial infarction (MI) who are at high risk for recurrent cardiovascular events 2
- Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) who are at increased risk for myocardial infarction and cardiovascular death 3, 4, 5
- Older patients with prior MI or ischemic stroke who are at risk for recurrent cardiovascular events 6
- Patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction, heart failure, or both after acute MI 4
High-Risk Patient Groups
High-risk patient groups that may benefit from aspirin and atorvastatin include:
- Patients with extremely high-risk TIMI risk score for secondary prevention (TRS2°P = 5-9) 2
- Patients with PAD, particularly those with a history of lower extremity revascularization or diabetes 3, 4, 5
- Older patients with comorbidities such as diabetes or chronic kidney disease 2, 6
Secondary Prevention
Aspirin and atorvastatin may be used as part of a secondary prevention strategy to reduce the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events in high-risk patients, including: