Issues with the aspirin

[LRH77]

Hi there,

I haven't posted in a long time. I was diagnosed with ET about 5 and a half years ago JAK2 positive. I've been taking aspirin since, initially dispersible and then enteric coated due to the dispersible causing tummy problems. Around 3 weeks ago I started to experience the worst stomach acid and tenderness, which I spoke with my gp about. He prescribed omeprazole which initially appeared to be a wonder drug and really helped. Until I did a night shift at work, forgot to take it before going to bed in the morning and woke with the same issues. It took a couple of days to get things back under control...

I had an appointment with the haematologist today who said it sounds like I could do with having an endoscopy to see if I've got an ulcer. He said I could be prescribed clopidogrel as an alternative to the aspirin. Oh and my platelets have risen (only to 646, but they've been really stable around the mid to high 400s all this time)

So I wonder if anyone else has experienced this issue, what happened and how was it managed? I'm 41 this year and obviously with this being a long term condition want it to be managed in the best possible way.

Thanks!

[piggie50]

Hi,

I was prescribed clopidogrel instead of aspirin after a major stomach bleed about 5 years ago, in hospital for 6 days with endoscopies in every orifice but no problems found! I also take Lansoprazole daily and have had no problems since. I used to take omoperazole until a pharmacist advised that it can stop clopidogrel working to full effectiveness . I spoke to my GP who checked her book, agreed and changed me to Lansoprazole.

Best wishes

Judy

[LRH77 in reply to piggie50]

Thank you for your reply, it's nice to hear a positive outcome with this particular issue. I have an appointment with the gp next week so will discuss this with him. It's interesting about the omeprazole preventing the clopidogrel from working so effectively. I know omeprazole long term can also cause issues with bone thinning. Not sure if Lansoprazole is similar in this regard, I shall look it up.

Best wishes

Lucy

[Normski1]

Hi there, sorry you are having problems with taking asprin. I had upset tummy and acid coming up my throat for considerable time. Spoke to Nurse Practioner in Haematology and she prescribed Clopidogrel 75mg x 1 a day. I have been on it for several years without any problems. Give it a try. Remember if you have any surgery etc., you must come of it for at least 7 days beforehand. Hope this helps.

[LRH77 in reply to Normski1]

Thanks Normski1

I saw my GP today who has agreed to trial clopidogrel and wants me to try coming off the omeprazole for 2wks so they can do an h.pylori test which can be treated with antibiotics. Hopefully that'll sort me out!

Best wishes