Aspirin desensitization – finding a way to take the aspirin that you need!
Many patients who require aspirin for prevention of heart attack or stroke are unable to take it because of a history of allergy to this medication. Allergy to aspirin most commonly occurs in patients who suffer from severe asthma with chronic sinus problems, and consists of acute nasal congestion, runny nose, and wheezing. There are other people who do not have asthma but develop hives, facial swelling, and possible throat swelling or wheezing after taking an aspirin. Both of these groups of patients will usually have similar reactions after taking other oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (AKA NSAID’s), such as Advil (ibuproen) or Aleve (naproxen).
Physicians at the Scripp’s Clinic in San Diego developed a very effective method for allowing patients to aspirin. By administering very tiny doses initially, and then increasing it over 1 to 2 days, most people are able to tolerate usual doses of aspirin. We have utilized the Scripp’s method for the past 10 years with great success. If you or your doctor feel that you need aspirin and are allergic, please call to find out if you are a candidate for this treatment.
Dr. Jonathan Corren was born and raised in the Los Angeles area. He graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles, with honors in Biology and then completed his medical training at the University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine.