A study from UI College of Pharmacy researchers has investigated the impact of low-dose aspirin on blood pressure in older adults. 

Previous research has shown that high-dose aspirin — especially when used regularly for an extended period — can lead to high blood pressure. Given that hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and low-dose aspirin is commonly taken by older adults, Michael Ernst, clinical professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science (PPS), aimed to understand low-dose aspirin’s effect on blood pressure in people older than 65.

The individuals — 19,114 healthy adults from the United States and Australia — were enrolled in the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial between 2010 and 2014 and followed for nearly five years. Participants were randomly given a low-dose aspirin tablet or a placebo. 

Neither the participants nor the researchers knew which trial subjects received which treatment. 

The participants’ blood pressure was measured annually for a median length of nearly five years. 

Ernst analyzed the ASPREE data and found there was no significant difference in blood pressure change between those who took the low-dose aspirin and those who took the placebo. Ernst collaborated with Michelle Fravel, clinical professor in PPS. 

Read More in Iowa Now
Written by: Office of Strategic Communication
Published Study: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension