Antiplatelet Therapy (Aspirin / Clopidogrel)

Platelets are the cells that help your blood clot. In some people, clots can form inside arteries already narrowed by plaque, triggering a heart attack or stroke.

Antiplatelet medicines make platelets less "sticky," reducing that risk. Whether you benefit depends on your personal history, so Dr. Golian reviews your blood pressure, cholesterol, and risk factors before recommending therapy. Because these medicines also raise bleeding risk, she weighs the benefit against your individual profile rather than prescribing them by default.

Bring a complete list of your current medications and supplements, including over-the-counter products like fish oil or other aspirin-containing pain relievers, so we can complete an accurate medication reconciliation.

Tell Dr. Golian about any history of stomach ulcers, easy bruising, or prior bleeding, and about upcoming surgery or dental work. If you also have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, share recent readings so your prevention plan can be coordinated as a whole.

Once you begin, Dr. Golian monitors how you tolerate the medication and watches for signs of bleeding, such as unusual bruising, blood in the stool, or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts.

Your therapy is reviewed at follow-up visits and adjusted as your risk changes over time. If you ever need a procedure, surgery, or see a specialist, she helps you through specialist referral and coordination so any decision to pause or resume the medication is made safely.