Aspirin to be subsidised

A popular low-dose aspirin is now subsidised by the Government.

Pharmac yesterday announced its decision to subsidise the over-the- counter Cartia brand used mainly by the over-65s as a means to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Those enrolled in primary health organisations will pay a maximum of $3 for a 90-day prescription.

Pharmac estimates that up to 200,000 people could be prescribed low-dose aspirin.