Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 6/18/2006

Question
I take lexapro, and the website says not to take aspirin with it.  I asked the pharmacist about this, and she said she didn't think it was a problem - and perhaps the website meant daily aspirin.  I am just going into menopause and I needed aspirin 5 times in the last 10 days...due to waking with a headache.  Is this interaction of lexapro and aspirin a problem?  The aspirin takes care of the headache.
Thank you!

Answer
Dear Lauren

There are reported interactions between aspirin and Lexapro but unless you have ever experienced bleeding problems from aspirin usage, the risk is negligible. In Australia it is not even listed as a potential problem but in theory it could be and trials have shown a slight risk in persons prone to gastric problems eg ulcer formation and gastric bleeding. If you are worried use acetaminophen (paracetamol) instead which does not cause bleeding problems.

Regards

Dr Alan Galbraith