Dipyridamol Alternova (Dipyridamole 200 mg)

Modified-release capsule for stroke and TIA prevention

Rx – Prescription Only Antiplatelet Agent ATC: B01AC07
Active Ingredient
Dipyridamole
Dosage Form
Modified-release capsule, hard
Available Strength
200 mg
Manufacturer
Alternova A/S (Orifarm)
Medically reviewed | Last reviewed: | Evidence level: 1A
Dipyridamol Alternova contains dipyridamole 200 mg in modified-release capsules. It is a prescription antiplatelet medicine used to prevent blood clots in the brain after a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). Dipyridamole works by reducing the tendency of blood platelets to clump together and form clots, thereby lowering the risk of recurrent cerebrovascular events. It may be used alone or in combination with low-dose aspirin.
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Written and reviewed by iMedic Medical Editorial Team | Specialists in clinical pharmacology

Quick Facts: Dipyridamol Alternova

Active Ingredient
Dipyridamole
200 mg per capsule
Drug Class
Antiplatelet
Phosphodiesterase inhibitor
ATC Code
B01AC07
Antithrombotic agent
Common Uses
Stroke Prevention
Post-stroke & TIA
Dosage Form
MR Capsule
Modified-release, hard
Prescription Status
Rx Only
Prescription required

Key Takeaways About Dipyridamol Alternova

  • Proven stroke prevention: Dipyridamole, especially when combined with low-dose aspirin, significantly reduces the risk of recurrent stroke and TIA based on large-scale clinical trials (ESPS-2, ESPRIT).
  • Take twice daily, swallow whole: One 200 mg modified-release capsule in the morning and one in the evening. Do not crush or chew the capsules.
  • Headache is common but usually temporary: Headache is the most frequent side effect, particularly at the start of treatment, but typically resolves with continued use within the first week.
  • Inform your doctor before cardiac stress tests: Dipyridamole can affect the results of pharmacological cardiac stress tests and may need to be paused before such testing.
  • Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Use only if your doctor considers it absolutely necessary. Dipyridamole passes into breast milk.

What Is Dipyridamol Alternova and What Is It Used For?

Dipyridamol Alternova is a prescription medicine containing dipyridamole 200 mg in modified-release capsules. It belongs to the class of antiplatelet agents and is used to prevent blood clots in the brain (stroke) in patients who have previously had a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA, sometimes called a “mini-stroke”).

Dipyridamole is a pyrimidopyrimidine compound that was first introduced in the 1960s as a coronary vasodilator. Over subsequent decades, extensive research revealed its potent antiplatelet properties, and it has since become established as a key medication in secondary stroke prevention. The active substance works through two complementary mechanisms: it inhibits phosphodiesterase (PDE), an enzyme that breaks down cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), and it blocks the cellular reuptake of adenosine, a naturally occurring substance that inhibits platelet aggregation.

By increasing intracellular cAMP levels and extracellular adenosine concentrations, dipyridamole effectively reduces the propensity of blood platelets to aggregate and form clots. This dual mechanism of action provides a pharmacological basis for its clinical efficacy in preventing thromboembolic events, particularly in the cerebrovascular circulation. The modified-release formulation in Dipyridamol Alternova ensures a sustained and steady release of the drug over a prolonged period, which maintains therapeutic plasma levels with convenient twice-daily dosing.

The primary clinical indication for Dipyridamol Alternova is the secondary prevention of ischaemic stroke and TIA. A transient ischaemic attack is a temporary episode of neurological dysfunction caused by a brief interruption of blood flow to the brain, spinal cord, or retina, without permanent tissue damage. Although TIA symptoms resolve within 24 hours, a TIA is a serious warning sign that indicates an elevated risk of a subsequent, potentially more severe stroke. The risk of stroke following a TIA is highest in the first 48 hours and remains significantly elevated for several weeks.

Dipyridamol Alternova can be used on its own (monotherapy) or in combination with low-dose aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). The landmark European Stroke Prevention Study 2 (ESPS-2) demonstrated that the combination of modified-release dipyridamole (200 mg twice daily) with low-dose aspirin (25 mg twice daily) reduced stroke risk by 37% compared with placebo, which was significantly more effective than either drug alone. The subsequent ESPRIT trial confirmed these findings, showing that the combination of aspirin and dipyridamole was superior to aspirin alone for secondary stroke prevention. If you are unable to tolerate aspirin due to gastrointestinal side effects, allergy, or other contraindications, dipyridamole may be prescribed as monotherapy.

Good to know

Dipyridamole that is contained in Dipyridamol Alternova may also be approved for other conditions not mentioned in this information. Always follow your doctor's instructions and consult your pharmacist or healthcare professional if you have additional questions about your treatment.

What Should You Know Before Taking Dipyridamol Alternova?

Before starting Dipyridamol Alternova, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially severe heart disease or myasthenia gravis. Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to dipyridamole or any of the other ingredients. Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements.

Before starting treatment with any new medication, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your medical history, current medications, and any known allergies. This is particularly important for antiplatelet agents like dipyridamole, which affect blood clotting and can interact with numerous other medicines.

Contraindications

You must not take Dipyridamol Alternova if you have a known allergy (hypersensitivity) to dipyridamole or to any of the other ingredients listed in the contents section of this article. Allergic reactions to dipyridamole, although uncommon, can manifest as skin rash, itching, hives (urticaria), swelling of the tongue, lips, or face, or more serious symptoms such as chest tightness and difficulty breathing. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction after taking Dipyridamol Alternova, stop taking the medicine immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

Warnings and Precautions

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse before taking Dipyridamol Alternova if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Severe heart disease: Dipyridamole has vasodilatory properties and can theoretically exacerbate certain cardiac conditions. Patients with severe coronary artery disease, unstable angina, recent myocardial infarction, aortic stenosis, decompensated heart failure, or haemodynamic instability should be closely monitored. The vasodilatory effect of dipyridamole may cause a “coronary steal” phenomenon, where blood flow is redistributed away from narrowed coronary arteries.
  • Myasthenia gravis: Dipyridamole may worsen the symptoms of myasthenia gravis, a rare autoimmune condition affecting the neuromuscular junction, because it can counteract the effects of cholinesterase inhibitors used to treat this condition. If you have myasthenia gravis, your neurologist and prescribing doctor should coordinate your care closely.
  • Bleeding disorders: As an antiplatelet agent, dipyridamole increases the risk of bleeding. Patients with coagulation disorders, active peptic ulcer disease, or those taking other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding.
  • Low blood pressure: Due to its vasodilatory effects, dipyridamole can lower blood pressure. Patients with pre-existing hypotension or those taking antihypertensive medications should be monitored, especially at the beginning of treatment.
Important: Cardiac Stress Tests

Tell your doctor that you are taking Dipyridamol Alternova if you are scheduled for a pharmacological cardiac stress test (myocardial perfusion imaging). Intravenous dipyridamole is commonly used as a pharmacological stressor in some cardiac imaging protocols, and concomitant oral dipyridamole therapy may alter test results or increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular effects during the procedure. Your doctor may advise you to temporarily discontinue Dipyridamol Alternova for 24 hours or longer before the test to ensure accurate results.

Use in Children

Dipyridamol Alternova is not recommended for use in children and adolescents due to a lack of sufficient clinical experience with dipyridamole in the paediatric population. The safety and efficacy of modified-release dipyridamole capsules have not been established in patients under 18 years of age. There are limited data from small studies using dipyridamole in paediatric patients for specific indications such as Kawasaki disease, but these involve different formulations and are beyond the scope of this product's approved use.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.

  • Pregnancy: Dipyridamol Alternova should not be used during pregnancy unless your doctor considers it absolutely necessary. While animal reproductive toxicity studies have not demonstrated direct teratogenic effects, there is limited clinical data from use in pregnant women. The potential benefits of treatment must be carefully weighed against possible risks to the foetus. Dipyridamole crosses the placental barrier in animal studies.
  • Breastfeeding: Dipyridamole is excreted into human breast milk. Therefore, Dipyridamol Alternova should not be used while breastfeeding due to the potential risk of adverse effects on the nursing infant. If treatment is considered essential for the mother, discuss alternative infant feeding arrangements with your doctor.
  • Fertility: The effect of dipyridamole on human fertility has not been formally studied. Animal reproductive studies have not shown adverse effects on fertility at clinically relevant doses.

Driving and Using Machines

Dipyridamol Alternova may have a slight to moderate effect on the ability to drive and use machines, due to possible side effects such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms are most common at the start of treatment and tend to diminish with continued use. If you experience these symptoms, you should not drive or operate machinery until they resolve. You are responsible for assessing whether you are fit to perform tasks that require heightened concentration and alertness.

How Does Dipyridamol Alternova Interact with Other Drugs?

Dipyridamole can interact with several other medications, including adenosine (used in cardiac testing and arrhythmia treatment), anticoagulants like warfarin, other antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin, and xanthine derivatives such as theophylline. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking.

Drug interactions with dipyridamole can be clinically significant and may require dose adjustments, additional monitoring, or avoidance of certain combinations. Understanding these interactions is essential for safe and effective use of Dipyridamol Alternova. The following table summarises the most important known interactions:

Known drug interactions with dipyridamole and clinical recommendations
Interacting Drug Effect of Interaction Severity Clinical Recommendation
Adenosine Dipyridamole inhibits adenosine reuptake, potentiating and prolonging the cardiovascular effects of adenosine including bradycardia and vasodilation Major Dose of adenosine may need to be reduced; close cardiac monitoring required during co-administration
Warfarin / Anticoagulants Additive antihaemostatic effects increasing the risk of bleeding complications Moderate Monitor INR closely; watch for signs of bleeding such as bruising, blood in urine or stools
Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic acid) Enhanced antiplatelet effect; intended therapeutic combination but increases bleeding risk Moderate Use low-dose aspirin only as directed; monitor for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding
Theophylline / Xanthines Xanthines may reduce the antiplatelet efficacy of dipyridamole by antagonising adenosine-mediated effects Moderate Consider alternative bronchodilator if possible; discuss with prescriber
Cholinesterase inhibitors Dipyridamole may counteract the effect of cholinesterase inhibitors, potentially worsening myasthenia gravis symptoms Moderate Close monitoring of myasthenia gravis symptoms; coordinate with neurologist
Antihypertensive drugs Dipyridamole may enhance blood pressure lowering effects due to its vasodilatory properties Minor Monitor blood pressure regularly; adjust antihypertensive dose if needed

Food and Alcohol Interactions

Dipyridamol Alternova can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food interactions that have been identified with dipyridamole. However, alcohol consumption can increase the vasodilatory effects of dipyridamole and may exacerbate side effects such as dizziness, headache, and hypotension. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake while taking this medication.

Caffeine-containing beverages and supplements, being xanthine derivatives, may theoretically reduce the antiplatelet efficacy of dipyridamole by antagonising adenosine-mediated effects, although this interaction is generally not considered clinically significant at normal dietary intake levels. Nevertheless, excessive caffeine consumption should be discussed with your healthcare provider if you are taking dipyridamole.

What Is the Correct Dosage of Dipyridamol Alternova?

The recommended dose for adults is one 200 mg modified-release capsule twice daily, usually taken morning and evening. Capsules should be swallowed whole without chewing. No dose adjustment is needed for elderly patients or those with kidney or liver impairment. Always follow your doctor's instructions.

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure about the correct dose. Adherence to the prescribed dosing regimen is crucial for maintaining the protective antiplatelet effect of dipyridamole.

Adults

Standard Dosing Regimen

The recommended dose is one capsule (200 mg) twice daily, usually taken in the morning and in the evening. The capsules can be taken with or without food. The modified-release capsules must be swallowed whole – do not crush, chew, or open the capsules, as this would destroy the modified-release mechanism and could lead to a rapid, uncontrolled release of the entire 200 mg dose at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

Alternative Dosing for Intolerable Headache

If you experience severe, intolerable headache at the start of treatment, your doctor may recommend a temporary alternative dosing regimen: take one capsule at bedtime combined with low-dose aspirin in the morning. Headache associated with dipyridamole typically diminishes within the first few days of regular dosing as the body adjusts to the vasodilatory effects of the medication. Your doctor will strongly recommend returning to the standard twice-daily regimen within one week to ensure optimal stroke prevention.

Children and Adolescents

Dipyridamol Alternova is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age due to insufficient clinical data on safety and efficacy in this age group.

Elderly Patients

No dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. However, older adults may be more susceptible to side effects such as dizziness and hypotension due to age-related changes in cardiovascular function and drug metabolism. Close monitoring is advisable, especially at the start of treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosing and report any new symptoms promptly.

Patients with Kidney or Liver Impairment

No dose adjustment is required for patients with impaired kidney function or impaired liver function. Dipyridamole is primarily metabolised by the liver through conjugation with glucuronic acid and is excreted mainly via the bile into the faeces, with minimal renal elimination. Nevertheless, patients with significant hepatic impairment should be monitored by their healthcare provider, as reduced hepatic clearance could theoretically lead to elevated plasma levels.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. Taking two capsules at once could increase the risk of side effects such as headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal discomfort. If you are unsure about what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Overdose

Overdose Warning

If you have taken more Dipyridamol Alternova than you should, or if a child has accidentally swallowed the medicine, contact your doctor, hospital emergency department, or poison control centre immediately for assessment and advice.

Symptoms of overdose may include: a feeling of warmth, hot flushes, sweating, restlessness and a feeling of weakness, dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), rapid breathing (tachypnoea), low blood pressure (hypotension), chest pain (angina pectoris), digestive disturbances, breathing difficulties with bluish discolouration of the lips and nails (cyanosis), prolonged bleeding time, and yellowing of the skin (jaundice). Loss of consciousness has been reported in severe overdose cases. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, as there is no specific antidote for dipyridamole overdose.

What Are the Side Effects of Dipyridamol Alternova?

Like all medicines, Dipyridamol Alternova can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most common side effects are headache, nausea, dizziness, and diarrhoea, occurring in more than 1 in 10 patients. These usually improve with continued treatment as the body adjusts to the medication.

Side effects are classified by their frequency of occurrence based on data from clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance. Understanding how common a side effect is can help you make informed decisions about your treatment and know when to seek medical attention. The most common side effects, headache and nausea, are usually mild to moderate in severity and tend to resolve within the first few days of treatment.

Very Common

Affects more than 1 in 10 patients

  • Headache (most frequent; caused by vasodilation, usually resolves within one week of continued treatment)
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhoea

Common

Affects up to 1 in 10 patients

  • Vomiting
  • Muscle pain (myalgia)
  • Skin rash
  • Chest pain / angina pectoris (pain that may radiate to the neck or arms, with breathing difficulties)

Reported (Frequency Unknown)

Reported during post-marketing surveillance; exact frequency cannot be estimated

  • Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
  • Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count causing easy bruising and prolonged bleeding from wounds)
  • Increased bleeding during or after surgical procedures
  • Allergic reactions (hypersensitivity) including chest tightness, difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, and swelling of tongue, lips, or face (angioedema)
  • Gallstones (presenting as sudden, rapidly worsening pain in the mid-abdomen or under the right ribcage)
  • Bronchospasm (difficulty breathing, asthma-like attacks, particularly in patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions)
  • Dizziness or fainting due to low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension)
  • Hot flushes
  • Hives (urticaria)
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Contact your doctor or go to the nearest emergency department immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

  • Chest pain with possible radiation to the neck or arms and breathing difficulties (signs of angina pectoris or myocardial infarction)
  • Severe allergic reaction with chest tightness, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • Unexplained bruising or prolonged bleeding from wounds (possible thrombocytopenia)
  • Sudden severe abdominal pain (possible gallstones)
  • Severe breathing difficulties or wheezing (bronchospasm)

Reporting Side Effects

Reporting suspected side effects after a medicine has been authorised is important, as it allows ongoing monitoring of the medicine's benefit-risk balance. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report any suspected adverse reactions to their national pharmacovigilance authority. In the EU, reports can be submitted through national reporting systems. In the US, adverse events can be reported to the FDA MedWatch program. In the UK, the Yellow Card Scheme managed by the MHRA accepts reports from both healthcare professionals and patients.

How Should You Store Dipyridamol Alternova?

Store Dipyridamol Alternova at or below 30°C in a tightly closed container. The capsules are moisture-sensitive. Once the container is opened, do not use capsules remaining after 6 weeks. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Proper storage of medication is essential to maintain its efficacy and safety. Dipyridamol Alternova modified-release capsules require specific storage conditions to preserve the integrity of the modified-release coating and the stability of the active ingredient. Improper storage, particularly exposure to excessive moisture or heat, can compromise the modified-release properties of the capsule and alter the drug's performance.

  • Temperature: Store at or below 30°C (86°F). Do not freeze. Avoid storing the medicine in areas subject to high temperatures such as near radiators, in direct sunlight, or in a car during warm weather.
  • Moisture protection: Keep the container tightly closed at all times. The capsules are moisture-sensitive, which is why the container includes a desiccant packet (silica gel sachet) to absorb ambient moisture. Do not remove the desiccant from the container.
  • After opening: Do not open the container until you are ready to start taking the capsules. If capsules remain in the container after 6 weeks from first opening, these should not be used and should be disposed of properly.
  • Expiry date: Do not use this medicine after the expiry date printed on the carton and container after “EXP.” The expiry date refers to the last day of the stated month.
  • Children: Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children at all times.
  • Disposal: Do not throw away medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines you no longer use. These measures help protect the environment.

What Does Dipyridamol Alternova Contain?

Each Dipyridamol Alternova capsule contains 200 mg of the active substance dipyridamole. The capsules are hard gelatin capsules with a red cap and orange body, containing yellow modified-release pellets.

Active Substance

The active substance is dipyridamole 200 mg per capsule. Dipyridamole (chemical name: 2,6-bis(diethanolamino)-4,8-dipiperidinopyrimido[5,4-d]pyrimidine) is a synthetic pyrimidopyrimidine compound with dual antiplatelet and vasodilatory properties. It has a molecular weight of 504.63 g/mol and appears as a yellow crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water but soluble in dilute acids, methanol, and chloroform.

Other Ingredients (Excipients)

The other ingredients in the capsule include:

  • Core pellets: 96% tartaric acid pellets (with 2% sucrose and 2% povidone K-30), hypromellose E 15, talc, spray-dried acacia, triacetin, povidone (PVP K30)
  • Coating system: Simethicone emulsion (containing simethicone, macrogol cetostearyl ether, sodium benzoate, purified water), methacrylic acid-ethyl acrylate copolymer, hypromellose phthalate P55
  • Capsule shell: Gelatin, titanium dioxide (E171), red and yellow iron oxide (E172)

Appearance and Pack Sizes

Dipyridamol Alternova capsules are hard gelatin capsules with a red cap and orange body, measuring approximately 7.66 × 23.1 mm. Each capsule contains yellow modified-release pellets that ensure a sustained and controlled release of dipyridamole in the gastrointestinal tract. The capsules are packaged in a plastic container that includes a desiccant packet (silica gel sachet) to protect against moisture. Available pack sizes include 30, 50, 60, 100, or 100 (2×50) capsules. Not all pack sizes may be marketed in every country.

Marketing Authorisation Holder

The marketing authorisation for Dipyridamol Alternova is held by Alternova A/S, Energivej 15, 5260 Odense S, Denmark. The product is manufactured by Orifarm Generics A/S at the same address. Dipyridamol Alternova is approved within the European Economic Area under various brand names including Dipyridamol Alternova (Sweden, Denmark) and Aponova (Norway).

Frequently Asked Questions About Dipyridamol Alternova

Dipyridamole is an antiplatelet medication that works by two main mechanisms: it inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase (PDE), which increases levels of cyclic AMP inside platelets, making them less likely to aggregate; and it blocks the reuptake of adenosine, a natural substance that also inhibits platelet clumping. Together, these actions reduce the tendency of blood platelets to form clots, thereby lowering the risk of ischaemic stroke (caused by a blood clot blocking blood flow to the brain) and transient ischaemic attack (TIA). Major clinical trials including ESPS-2 and ESPRIT have demonstrated that dipyridamole, particularly when combined with low-dose aspirin, significantly reduces the risk of recurrent stroke compared to placebo or aspirin alone.

Yes, Dipyridamol Alternova is commonly prescribed in combination with low-dose aspirin for enhanced stroke prevention. The ESPS-2 trial demonstrated that the combination of modified-release dipyridamole (200 mg twice daily) with aspirin (25 mg twice daily) was significantly more effective than either agent alone, reducing stroke risk by approximately 37% compared with placebo. If you cannot tolerate aspirin due to allergy, gastrointestinal side effects, or other reasons, your doctor may prescribe dipyridamole on its own as monotherapy. Always follow your doctor's specific advice regarding whether to take dipyridamole alone or in combination with aspirin.

Headache is the most commonly reported side effect of dipyridamole, affecting more than 1 in 10 patients. It occurs because dipyridamole causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), including the cerebral blood vessels, by inhibiting phosphodiesterase and increasing adenosine levels. This vasodilation triggers headache through a mechanism similar to migraines. The good news is that this side effect is almost always temporary and diminishes within the first few days to one week of regular dosing as your body adjusts to the medication. If the headache is particularly severe at the start of treatment, your doctor may recommend a temporary alternative dosing schedule – one capsule at bedtime with low-dose aspirin in the morning – before returning to the standard twice-daily regimen within one week.

Dipyridamol Alternova should not be taken during pregnancy unless your doctor considers it absolutely necessary after weighing the potential benefits against possible risks. While animal studies have not demonstrated direct harmful effects on the developing foetus, there is insufficient clinical data from use in pregnant women to confirm its safety. Additionally, dipyridamole is excreted in human breast milk, so it should not be used during breastfeeding due to the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, always discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before starting or continuing treatment with dipyridamole.

If you forget to take a dose of Dipyridamol Alternova, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule. Never take two capsules at once to make up for a missed dose, as this could increase the likelihood and severity of side effects such as headache and gastrointestinal upset. If you frequently forget doses, consider setting reminders on your phone or using a pill organiser to help maintain your regular dosing schedule. Consistent adherence to the dosing regimen is important for maintaining the antiplatelet protection that helps prevent strokes.

Treatment with Dipyridamol Alternova for secondary stroke prevention is typically long-term and often continued indefinitely unless your doctor advises otherwise. The aim is to provide ongoing protection against recurrent stroke or TIA. Do not stop taking the medication on your own without consulting your doctor first, as abruptly discontinuing antiplatelet therapy could increase your risk of a thromboembolic event. Your doctor will periodically review your treatment to ensure it remains appropriate for your clinical situation and will consider factors such as your overall cardiovascular risk, other medications, and any side effects you may be experiencing.

References

All medical information in this article is based on peer-reviewed research, international treatment guidelines, and official regulatory documents. The following sources were consulted:

  1. Diener HC, Cunha L, Forbes C, et al. European Stroke Prevention Study 2. Dipyridamole and acetylsalicylic acid in the secondary prevention of stroke. Journal of the Neurological Sciences. 1996;143(1-2):1-13. doi:10.1016/s0022-510x(96)00308-5
  2. ESPRIT Study Group. Aspirin plus dipyridamole versus aspirin alone after cerebral ischaemia of arterial origin (ESPRIT): randomised controlled trial. The Lancet. 2006;367(9523):1665-1673. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(06)68734-5
  3. European Medicines Agency (EMA). Summary of Product Characteristics: Dipyridamole modified-release capsules. Available at: www.ema.europa.eu
  4. British National Formulary (BNF). Dipyridamole. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Available at: bnf.nice.org.uk
  5. World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd List, 2023. Available at: www.who.int
  6. Kernan WN, Ovbiagele B, Black HR, et al. Guidelines for the Prevention of Stroke in Patients With Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack: A Guideline for Healthcare Professionals. Stroke. 2014;45(7):2160-2236. doi:10.1161/STR.0000000000000024
  7. Halkes PH, van Gijn J, Kappelle LJ, et al. Aspirin plus dipyridamole versus aspirin alone after cerebral ischaemia of arterial origin (ESPRIT): randomised controlled trial. The Lancet. 2006;367:1665-73.
  8. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Prescribing Information: Dipyridamole. Available at: www.fda.gov

About the Medical Editorial Team

This article has been written and medically reviewed by the iMedic Medical Editorial Team, a team of licensed specialist physicians with expertise in clinical pharmacology, neurology, and cerebrovascular medicine. All content follows the GRADE evidence framework and adheres to international medical guidelines from the WHO, EMA, FDA, and BNF.

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