When should a PCP not administer aspirin to a patient?

Aspirin is commonly administered in cases of chest pain, particularly when there is a suspicion of acute coronary syndrome, due to its antiplatelet properties. However, there are specific contraindications where administering aspirin would be inappropriate.

In the case of an active gastrointestinal bleed, giving aspirin can exacerbate the bleeding due to its ability to inhibit platelet function and its direct irritative effect on the gastrointestinal mucosa. Additionally, if a patient has an allergy to aspirin, administering it could lead to anaphylactic reactions or other severe side effects, which would be harmful to the patient.

While patients with high blood pressure or those already taking anticoagulants may require careful consideration, they do not have absolute contraindications to aspirin. High blood pressure alone does not preclude the use of aspirin, and patients on anticoagulants might still be prescribed aspirin in certain scenarios, as it can be part of a dual antiplatelet therapy under a physician’s guidance. Therefore, the risk factors related to gastrointestinal bleeding and known allergy to aspirin make this the key reason for not administering the medication to a patient.