Effect of Aspirin on Hemostasis and Thrombosis

Aspirin inhibits platelet function by acetylating platelet cyclo-oxygenase. When aspirin is administered in doses as low as 40-160 mg per day, it inhibits platelet cyclo-oxygenase activity by more than 80%. The effect of aspirin on platelet function is maintained for the life-span of the platelet and there is evidence that aspirin also acetylates platelets before they are released in the circulation and while they are still within …