Q: I saw an article that suggested that low dose aspirin was only effective on blood pressure when taken right before bedtime, and it seemed only in women. What is your opinion — is it good for men and what’s the proper time to take it?
A: Taking low dose aspirin daily can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke but can also cause serious bleeding. The balance between benefit versus risk is small. Because of this, the decision to start on aspirin should be made after talking to your doctor. Studies done in Spain have shown that taking aspirin at night helps reduce blood pressure in both men and women.