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Pharmacology · single question

A patient is taking 81 mg of aspirin daily. Why are the gums bleeding when she brushes?

  1. Aspirin's antiplatelet action impairs platelet aggregation and primary hemostasis
  2. Aspirin's vitamin K antagonism reduces clotting
  3. Aspirin causes gingival overgrowth
  4. Aspirin causes xerostomia leading to gingival inflammation
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Correct answer: A. Aspirin's antiplatelet action impairs platelet aggregation and primary hemostasis

  • A. Correct. Aspirin IRREVERSIBLY inhibits COX-1 (cyclooxygenase-1) in platelets, blocking thromboxane A2 production. This prevents platelet aggregation and impairs PRIMARY HEMOSTASIS. With reduced platelet function, minor gingival bleeding during brushing is prolonged and more pronounced.
  • B. Incorrect. Vitamin K antagonism is the MOA of WARFARIN — not aspirin. Aspirin does not affect vitamin K or clotting factor synthesis.
  • C. Incorrect. Gingival overgrowth is caused by phenytoin, calcium channel blockers, and cyclosporine — not aspirin.
  • D. Incorrect. Aspirin does not cause xerostomia.

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