Effect of Anticoagulant Therapy upon Aspirin-Induced Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Abstract

To determine the influence of anticoagulant therapy upon aspirin-induced gastrointestinal bleeding, 20 patients who were receiving acenocoumarin were studied during aspirin and control periods. Results were compared with those obtained from a similarly studied volunteer group with normal clotting mechanisms. Fecal blood content was measured in quantitative 4-day specimens using radioactive Na chromate. Prothrombin time was measured daily, using the Quick method. The aspirin dose used throughout the study was 600 mg, 4 times daily. The average daily blood loss in the anticoagulant group was 1.1 ml during the control period, and 4.7 during the aspirin period. Corresponding figures for the control group were 0.5 and 4.7 ml respectively. Most patients required a reduction in maintenance anticoagulant dosage while taking aspirin.