|
ASA Effect - New from LifeLabs
LifeLabs is pleased to offer a convenient and reliable test to determine if a patient is receiving the beneficial effects of ASA.
The benefits of ASA - ASA, also known as ‘acetylsalicylic acid’, is frequently called a ‘wonder drug’ because of its many beneficial properties. It is estimated that over 4 million people in Canada take ASA every day to help prevent heart attacks and stroke. One of the most amazing effects of ASA is that it makes blood platelets less sticky, which can prevent blood clots from forming. If blood clots cannot form within the arteries blood flows more freely and the risk of heart attack and stroke is reduced.
Patients respond differently to ASA - Research has shown that up to 25 percent of individuals who take ASA to prevent heart attacks and stroke may not benefit from its anti-clotting effect*. Individuals who are ASA resistant are three times more likely to die from a heart attack or stroke**.
About the ASA Effect Test
The ASA Effect test is used to identify patients who do not benefit from the anti-clotting effects of ASA. It does this by measuring the amount of thromboxane production in the blood. Thromboxane is a chemical produced in the body that may cause blood to clot under certain conditions. Thromboxane levels are lower in individuals who respond to ASA therapy. If, after taking ASA, a patient continues to produce a high level of throboxane, this is an indication that their ASA is not working; they should consult their physician regarding a potential change in your ASA dosage or to determine the need for alternative therapy.
The ASA Effect test was approved by Health Canada in May 2007. Today, it is offered in Canada through LifeLabs Medical Laboratory Services.
For more information, visit www.ASAEffect.com
To arrange an ASA Effect test, please contact LifeLabs toll free at 1-877-849-3637.
References: * Snoep JD, Hovens MC, Eikenboom J et al. Association of Laboratory Defined Aspirin Resistance with a Higher Risk of Recurrent Cardivascular Events. Arch intern Med. 2007;167:1593-9. ** Eikenboom JW, Hirsh J, Weitz JI, et al. Aspirin-Resistant Thromboxane Biosynthesis and the Risk of Myocardial Infarction, Stroke, or Cardiovascular Death In Patients at High Risk for Cardiovascular Events. Circulation. 2002;105:1650-5.
|
