What is the standard dose of aspirin recommended for acute coronary syndrome patients?

The standard dose of aspirin recommended for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is 325 mg. This higher dose is particularly effective in the acute setting because it provides a rapid antiplatelet effect, which is crucial for minimizing thrombus formation in the coronary arteries during an acute event such as a myocardial infarction or unstable angina.

The 325 mg dose is generally administered as a chewable tablet to ensure quick absorption, which is vital given the nature of ACS where time is a key factor in treatment outcomes. Once a patient is stabilized or after the initial management phase, the maintenance dose can be adjusted to a lower daily dose, typically 81 mg, to provide ongoing antiplatelet therapy and reduce the risk of further cardiovascular events.

Utilizing a dose of 325 mg in the acute phase is supported by guidelines and clinical studies that show a clear benefit in improving patient outcomes during and immediately following a coronary event.