During myocardial infarction, which medication should be offered to chew if available?

• A. 100 mg Ibuprofen.
• B. 300 mg Aspirin to chew.
• C. 500 mg Acetaminophen.
• D. 75 mg Aspirin.

Answer: (B)

In an acute myocardial infarction, fast action to reduce clot growth is crucial. Aspirin is the first-line antiplatelet therapy because it permanently inhibits platelets by blocking cyclooxygenase, which lowers thromboxane A2 and the tendency for platelets to aggregate. Chewing the tablet speeds absorption, so the antiplatelet effect kicks in within minutes rather than taking longer if swallowed whole. A total dose of 300 mg is recommended for rapid, effective platelet inhibition in this emergency context, rather than a lower daily maintenance dose used for prevention or other medications that don’t provide the same immediate antiplatelet effect. The other options don’t offer this rapid antiplatelet action: ibuprofen doesn’t reliably support the needed effect and may interfere with aspirin; acetaminophen provides pain relief but no antiplatelet benefit; and a 75 mg aspirin dose is insufficient for an acute event. Hence, chewable aspirin 300 mg is the best immediate choice if there are no contraindications.