BOKEY Medication for Heart Vessel Blockage: Risks and Recommendations

Just completed a myocardial perfusion imaging?

I have been diagnosed with a 10% blockage in one of my heart vessels.
The doctor prescribed BOKEY.
Can this medication treat the blockage? Will long-term use harm my liver, kidneys, or stomach? The doctor mentioned that I should take it for two years and then undergo a myocardial perfusion scan to check for any further blockages.
Could you please provide me with some advice? Thank you very much.

A Long, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/28

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, on January 10th, very mild BOKEY is primarily used to prevent platelet aggregation.
It is intended for patients who have previously blocked blood vessels and cannot reduce their narrowing.
Its main ingredient is aspirin, which may harm the stomach but does not affect the liver or kidneys.
You can choose to take it or not; if your stomach is fine, you can take it.
However, if you have a poor stomach or gastroesophageal reflux, it is advisable not to take it.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/01/28

More Info

BOKEY, which contains aspirin as its active ingredient, is primarily used to prevent platelet aggregation and reduce the risk of thrombotic events, such as heart attacks and strokes. In your case, with a minor blockage of 10% in a coronary artery, the use of BOKEY is aimed at preventing further complications rather than directly treating the existing blockage. It is important to understand that while BOKEY can help reduce the risk of new clots forming, it does not dissolve existing blockages.

Regarding the long-term use of BOKEY, it is generally considered safe for most patients, especially when used for cardiovascular protection. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. The most common side effect of aspirin is gastrointestinal irritation, which can lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding in some individuals. Therefore, if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you should discuss this with your healthcare provider, as they may recommend a protective medication to take alongside BOKEY.

As for concerns about liver and kidney damage, aspirin is not typically associated with significant harm to these organs when used at recommended doses. However, it is always wise to have regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor your overall health, especially if you are on long-term medication.

Your doctor’s recommendation to continue taking BOKEY for two years before reassessing with a myocardial perfusion scan is a common approach. This allows time to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication in preventing further blockage or complications. It is crucial to follow your doctor's advice and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your heart health.

If you are considering stopping BOKEY, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider first. Abruptly discontinuing the medication could increase your risk of cardiovascular events, especially if you have underlying risk factors such as hyperlipidemia or a family history of heart disease. Your doctor can provide guidance on whether it is safe to stop the medication based on your current health status and risk factors.

In summary, BOKEY is not a treatment for existing blockages but serves as a preventive measure against future cardiovascular events. Long-term use is generally safe, but monitoring for gastrointestinal side effects is essential. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen, and ensure regular follow-ups to assess your heart health.

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