Why is this medication prescribed?

Aspirin is commonly prescribed for several reasons:

• Pain Relief: Aspirin is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothaches, muscle aches, and menstrual cramps.
• Anti-inflammatory: Aspirin has anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing inflammation and swelling. This is particularly useful in conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory joint diseases.
• Fever Reduction: It helps lower fever by acting on the part of the brain that regulates temperature.
• Cardioprotective: Aspirin is often prescribed in low doses to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people at high risk due to cardiovascular disease. It works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots.
• Prevention of Stroke: Aspirin is sometimes used for stroke prevention in individuals who have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or certain types of ischemic strokes.
• Prevention of Certain Cancers: There is some evidence suggesting that long-term use of aspirin may reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.

The exact reason for prescribing aspirin depends on the individual’s medical condition and overall health status, and it should always be taken according to a doctor’s instructions due to potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

How should this medicine be used?

Aspirin should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor or as directed on the medication label. Here are some general guidelines on how aspirin is typically used:

• Dosage: The dosage of aspirin varies depending on the condition being treated. It can range from low doses (81 mg or 100 mg) used for heart health to higher doses (325 mg or more) for pain relief or anti-inflammatory purposes. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage.
• Frequency: Aspirin is usually taken orally with a full glass of water. The frequency of dosing can vary:
  • For pain relief and fever reduction, it is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
  • For long-term heart protection or stroke prevention, it may be taken once daily.
• Timing: It is important to take aspirin as directed. For pain relief, take it when you start feeling pain. For heart health or stroke prevention, take it consistently at the same time each day to maintain a steady level in your bloodstream.
• Food: Aspirin can be taken with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, taking it with food may help alleviate this.
• Swallow Whole: Swallow the aspirin tablets whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets unless instructed otherwise by your doctor or pharmacist, as this can affect how the medication is absorbed in your body.
• Follow-up: If you are using aspirin for long-term conditions like heart health or stroke prevention, it is important to regularly follow up with your doctor. They may adjust your dosage or monitor you for any side effects or complications.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake while taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
• Storage: Store aspirin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children.

Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition and health needs. They can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage, duration of treatment, and any precautions you should take while using aspirin.

Other uses for this medicine

• Prevention of Pre-eclampsia: Some studies suggest that low-dose aspirin (81 mg daily) may help reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women at high risk for the condition.
• Migraine Prevention: Aspirin is sometimes used in combination with other medications for preventing migraines.
• Cancer Prevention: There is ongoing research into the potential benefits of aspirin in reducing the risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Aspirin:

• Bleeding Risk: Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken in high doses or for long periods. This risk is higher in individuals with a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or those taking other medications that increase bleeding risk (such as anticoagulants).
• Allergies: Individuals with a known allergy to aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) should avoid aspirin unless under medical supervision.
• Gastric Irritation: Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining, potentially leading to gastritis, ulcers, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Taking aspirin with food or using enteric-coated formulations can reduce this risk.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Aspirin can interact with various medications, including blood thinners, corticosteroids, certain antidepressants, and others. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you are taking to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
• Children and Adolescents: Aspirin should generally be avoided in children and teenagers with viral infections (such as flu or chickenpox) due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness that can affect the liver and brain.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Aspirin should be used cautiously during pregnancy and breastfeeding. High doses should be avoided unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
• Kidney Function: Aspirin can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease. Regular monitoring may be necessary.
• Surgery: Inform your healthcare provider if you are scheduled for surgery or dental procedures, as aspirin can increase bleeding risk and your doctor may advise temporarily stopping its use.

Always follow your doctor’s advice and read the medication label carefully before using aspirin. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking aspirin, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for aspirin, but here are some general tips:

• Stomach Upset: Taking aspirin with food or milk can help reduce stomach irritation. If you experience stomach upset, avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine, which can exacerbate irritation.
• Hydration: Maintain adequate hydration, especially if you are taking aspirin for an extended period, as it may help mitigate potential kidney effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If Taking for Pain Relief or Fever: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• If Taking for Heart Health or Stroke Prevention: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aspirin, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects: Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining, leading to symptoms such as:
  • Stomach pain
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Indigestion
  • Gastric ulcers
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding (which can sometimes be serious)
• Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to aspirin, which can manifest as:
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Swelling, particularly of the face, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
• Bleeding: Aspirin can inhibit blood clotting, which may lead to increased bleeding. This can manifest as:
  • Easy bruising
  • Nosebleeds
  • Bleeding gums
  • Prolonged bleeding from cuts or injuries
• Kidney Function: Long-term use of aspirin, especially in high doses, may affect kidney function, leading to:
  • Decreased urine output
  • Swelling in the legs or ankles (edema)
  • Fatigue
• Reye’s Syndrome: This is a rare but serious condition that primarily affects children and teenagers recovering from viral infections. Aspirin use during these infections may increase the risk of Reye’s syndrome, which can cause liver and brain damage.
• Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus): Some individuals may experience ringing or buzzing in the ears, especially at higher doses of aspirin.
• Other: Other less common side effects may include dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and in rare cases, severe allergic reactions or liver damage.

If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking aspirin, particularly severe stomach pain, persistent nausea or vomiting, black or bloody stools, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your treatment if necessary to minimize risks.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Aspirin:

• Storage: Store aspirin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original container or packaging, tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: If you have expired or unused aspirin, follow these guidelines:
  • Check if there are specific disposal instructions on the medication label or package insert.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.
  • Take unused or expired aspirin to a medication take-back program or follow local regulations for proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In Case of Overdose: Symptoms of aspirin overdose may include ringing in the ears, rapid breathing, confusion, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating. In severe cases, overdose can lead to serious complications such as seizures, coma, or even death.
• What to Do: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after taking aspirin:
  • Call emergency services (911 in the US) immediately.
  • Contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical attention.
  • Provide as much information as possible about the amount of aspirin taken and the timing of ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Alerts: Inform healthcare providers about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs like aspirin. This helps prevent interactions and ensures safe treatment.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
• Regular Monitoring: If you are taking aspirin long-term for conditions like heart health or stroke prevention, your doctor may recommend periodic check-ups to monitor for side effects and assess treatment effectiveness.
• Follow Instructions: Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose unless instructed to do so.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the use of aspirin during pregnancy or breastfeeding with your healthcare provider. High doses should generally be avoided during these times.
• Allergies and Sensitivities: If you have allergies to aspirin or other NSAIDs, or if you have experienced stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders, inform your healthcare provider before starting aspirin therapy.

By following these guidelines and communicating openly with your healthcare provider, you can safely use aspirin and minimize potential risks or complications. If you have any specific concerns or questions about aspirin use, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.