In a revelation that has caught the attention of medical professionals globally, former US President Donald Trump stated in an interview with The Wall Street Journal that he has been consuming a significantly higher dose of aspirin than typically advised by doctors for the past 25 years. This admission, made on January 3, 2026, has sparked a crucial conversation about the safe use of this common medication for heart health.
The Revelation: A Daily Dose Far Exceeding Recommendations
Donald Trump claimed to be in "perfect" health, attributing part of his well-being to his aspirin regimen. He disclosed that he takes 325 milligrams (mg) of aspirin every day. This stands in stark contrast to the low-dose 81 mg aspirin that is commonly recommended by physicians for cardiovascular protection in certain patients. Trump's rationale, as quoted, was his belief that aspirin thins the blood and he does not want "thick blood pouring through my heart." He also acknowledged a side effect of this practice: easy bruising, which he covers with makeup.
Cardiologist's Verdict: More Aspirin Is Not Better for the Heart
Is this self-prescribed high dose a safe practice? Dr. Vanita Arora, a cardiac electrophysiologist and interventional cardiologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, provides a clear medical perspective. She emphasizes that while low-dose aspirin (typically 75-150 mg daily) is a valuable tool to prevent heart attacks and strokes by inhibiting blood clots, the benefits plateau at a certain point.
"Extra aspirin does not mean extra heart protection," Dr. Arora states unequivocally. Once the maximum anti-clotting effect is achieved with a low dose, increasing the amount does not provide additional cardiovascular safeguard. Instead, it needlessly escalates the risk of harmful side effects.
The Dangerous Side Effects of High-Dose Aspirin
The most significant threat from consistently high aspirin intake is bleeding. Aspirin impairs the body's clotting mechanism, and higher doses substantially raise the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (in the stomach or intestines) and, more dangerously, bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). This risk is compounded by age, alcohol consumption, dehydration, or concurrent use of other blood-thinning medicines.
The stomach lining is particularly vulnerable. High doses can lead to:
- Gastritis and stomach ulcers
- Abdominal pain
- Bleeding, signaled by black, tarry stools or vomiting blood
Other potential complications include kidney strain, especially in older adults or those with pre-existing kidney issues, and at very high levels, aspirin toxicity. Symptoms of toxicity include tinnitus (ringing in the ears), rapid breathing, and confusion, which constitute a medical emergency.
The Right Way to Use Aspirin in a Heart Emergency
Dr. Arora clarifies the appropriate use of aspirin during a suspected heart attack. If a doctor has previously advised it, chewing a single regular-strength 325 mg aspirin while awaiting emergency services can be beneficial, as chewing speeds up its action. However, it is crucial to remember that aspirin is not a substitute for immediate hospital care. It should not be taken if the person is allergic, has active bleeding, or has been specifically told by a doctor to avoid it.
The key takeaway from cardiologists is that aspirin is a potent and life-saving drug when used correctly under medical supervision. Self-medicating, especially at doses far exceeding standard recommendations, can turn a protective measure into a significant health hazard. The case highlights the critical importance of following dosage guidelines prescribed by a healthcare professional and not equating "more" with "better" when it comes to medication.
