What are the major side effects associated with antiplatelet therapy?

The major side effects associated with antiplatelet therapy primarily include an increased risk of bleeding and gastrointestinal issues. Antiplatelet agents, such as aspirin and clopidogrel, work by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which is crucial in preventing blood clots in patients at risk for cardiovascular events. However, this action can also lead to an increased risk of uncontrolled bleeding, including in situations like surgery or in patients with certain medical conditions.

Gastrointestinal issues are also significant side effects, particularly associated with aspirin, which can cause gastric irritation or ulcers due to its effect on the gastric mucosa. This can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or even more severe complications like gastrointestinal bleeding.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the primary side effects related to antiplatelet therapy. For instance, while headaches and dizziness can occur, they are not major concerns typically linked with these medications. The same applies to fatigue and muscle weakness; these symptoms are more commonly associated with other conditions or medications rather than being a hallmark of antiplatelet therapy. Increased risk of infections is generally not a recognized consequence of using antiplatelet agents.