Doctors no longer recommend daily baby aspirin for most adults 60 and up

Those with history of heart attack or stroke should continue regimen, CHI Health doc says

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – For years, doctors recommended that older adults take low-dose, or baby, aspirin every day to protect against heart attacks and stroke.

But new research shows that there is an age limit for who should be taking the medication.

Doctors now say the recommended age for people to take baby aspirin is 40 to 59. They say most people 60 and older should not take the medication as a preventative.

People at that age more susceptible to bleeding events, so the risks of taking baby aspirin outweigh the benefits.

Dr. Anu Tunuguntla, a cardiologist at CHI Health, said she’s been getting calls from patients confused about this new recommendation.

“This does not apply to any patient who has had history of prior stroke, heart attack or vascular disease,” she said. “So it’s healthy individuals. If you have any cardiac history or vascular history, please do not stop taking that aspirin.”

That message is for anyone, regardless of age.

As always, it is recommended to speak with your doctor before taking a new medication.