Dipyridamole: What It Does and How to Use It Safely
Dipyridamole is a medicine doctors use to help prevent blood clots and to widen blood vessels during certain heart tests. You might know it as Persantine, or see it combined with low‑dose aspirin under brand names like Aggrenox. It works by making platelets less sticky and by increasing blood flow in specific parts of the body. That dual action makes it useful after an ischemic stroke and during pharmacologic stress testing for the heart.
Common uses and dosing vary. For stroke prevention doctors often prescribe the extended‑release dipyridamole 200 mg plus aspirin 25 mg twice a day. For cardiac stress testing hospitals give an intravenous dose, usually 0.56 mg per kg over four minutes, but only under medical supervision. Never change your dose without talking to your healthcare provider. Follow prescription instructions and ask about how to take it with or without food.
Side effects are usually mild but can be annoying. Headache, dizziness, flushing, and upset stomach are common soon after starting the drug. Because dipyridamole affects platelets it can raise bleeding risk, especially if you take other anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. Report unusual bruising, long nosebleeds, black stools, or heavy bleeding to your doctor right away.
Watch for interactions. Combining dipyridamole with warfarin, NOACs, or extra aspirin increases bleeding chances. Some medicines used during heart tests or for asthma can interact too. Tell your provider every medicine and supplement you use, including herbal products and vitamins. If you need a rapid reversal after stress testing, hospitals sometimes give aminophylline to block dipyridamole’s effects.
Who should avoid dipyridamole? If you have active bleeding, a recent major surgery, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or severe coronary disease you and your doctor will likely pick a different option. Use caution if you are pregnant or breastfeeding — talk through risks and benefits. Older adults may be more sensitive to dizziness and falls; start low and watch closely.
Simple tips make it safer. Carry a list of your meds and wear medical ID if you take blood thinners. Skip alcohol while you’re adjusting to the medication if it makes you dizzy. Schedule follow up tests so your doctor can check for bleeding or other problems. Always buy prescription drugs from a trustworthy pharmacy and confirm the label and expiry before starting.
Questions to ask your doctor: Do I need blood tests? How long should I take dipyridamole? What symptoms mean I should stop? Who should I call for side effects? Write these down so you leave the visit with clear next steps.
If you buy dipyridamole online, get a prescription and check the pharmacy's credentials. Cheap pills from unknown sources can be fake or unsafe. Keep a medicine diary to record doses and side effects for the first few weeks. If you notice worsening chest pain, fainting, severe headaches, or signs of stroke call emergency services immediately. Your doctor is the best source for tailoring care to your health history. Ask questions early.
