Aspirin More Helpful if Taken at Night

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An aspirin taken at bedtime may help to lower blood pressure in people who are at risk of developing hypertension, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Society for Hypertension in New Orleans.

Since hypertension is a major cause of heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney disease, preventing high blood pressure in people at high risk may be another important use for aspirin.

Currently, many doctors recommend aspirin use for patients with heart disease to prevent a second heart attack and for people who are at high risk for heart disease — such as those with type 2 diabetes. Aspirin, available in numerous over-the-counter products, is also used to treat fever, pain, and inflammation.

Before taking aspirin to prevent heart disease or to lower blood pressure, talk to your healthcare provider. Aspirin can have serious side effectssuch as abdominal pain and bleeding.