Aspirin is recommended as the first-line antiplatelet drug for patients at high risk of serious vascular events.
Aspirin's widespread use and recommendation as the initial antiplatelet agent stem from its proven efficacy in reducing the risk of serious vascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, by approximately 25% in high-risk individuals. While other antiplatelet drugs like clopidogrel exist, aspirin generally serves as the primary choice due to its established safety profile, affordability, and effectiveness. Clopidogrel may be considered as an alternative or in combination with aspirin in specific clinical situations where aspirin is contraindicated or has shown insufficient efficacy.