Effect of chronic aspirin administration on an experimental model of metabolic syndrome.

1. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of chronic administration of aspirin on metabolic and cardiovascular parameters in fructose-fed rats (FFR), an experimental model of metabolic syndrome. 2. Chronic treatment of FFR with aspirin (10 mg/kg per day for 6 weeks) partially reversed the increment in systolic blood pressure. In addition, chronic aspirin treatment normalized relative heart weight and vascular remodelling of renal and carotid arteries, measured as lumen diameter: medial thickness ratio. 3. Furthermore, chronic aspirin administration completely reversed glucose intolerance and decreased the oxidative status that characterizes the FFR model, as indicated by decreased plasma levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances and aortic NAD(P)H oxidase activity. 4. Prevention of oxidative stress and vascular remodelling in FFR may contribute to the protective actions attributed to aspirin in the treatment of metabolic syndrome.