Aspirin not recommended for older adults for heart attack prevention

Low-dose aspirin (81 mg to 100 mg) should no longer be initially prescribed to try to prevent cardiovascular diseases for adults 60 years and older, as its risk of side effects far outweighs its potential benefit, according to an updated draft recommendation released Tuesday by the US Preventive Services Task Force. People age 40 to 59 should consult with their doctors before taking aspirin.