Why is this medication prescribed?

Aspirin (Aspirin Rectal) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, reduce fever, and lower inflammation. The rectal form of aspirin is typically used in specific situations, such as when a person cannot take oral medications due to nausea, vomiting, or surgery.

• Pain Relief: For mild to moderate pain, including headaches, muscle pain, toothaches, and menstrual cramps.
• Fever Reduction: To lower body temperature in cases of fever.
• Anti-inflammatory: To reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis.
• Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention: In some cases, aspirin is used to prevent blood clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

How should this medicine be used?

When prescribed in rectal suppository form, the usage instructions typically include:

• Dosage: Follow the dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider. Dosage can vary based on age, condition being treated, and other factors.
• Administration: Wash hands before and after administering the suppository. The suppository should be inserted rectally as per the instructions provided with the medication.
• Frequency: Use the suppository as directed by your doctor, usually once every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain or fever. Do not use more frequently than prescribed.
• Positioning: Lie down on your side with one leg bent, and gently insert the suppository into the rectum pointed end first. Remain lying down for a few minutes to allow the suppository to dissolve.
• Duration: Use for the shortest duration necessary to relieve symptoms, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

It’s important to note that aspirin can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions such as stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or allergies to aspirin. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your specific health needs.

Other uses for this medicine

• Antipyretic: It is used to lower fever.
• Antiplatelet: In low doses, aspirin can prevent blood clots and is often prescribed for those at risk of heart attacks or strokes.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Aspirin:

• Bleeding risk: Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if used in high doses or in combination with other blood-thinning medications. Caution is advised in individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants (blood thinners).
• Stomach irritation: Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, particularly with long-term use or in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal problems.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to aspirin or develop hypersensitivity reactions. It’s important to inform healthcare providers of any history of allergies, particularly to NSAIDs.
• Renal function: Long-term or high-dose aspirin use may affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary.
• Children and adolescents: Aspirin should generally be avoided in children and adolescents recovering from viral infections (particularly influenza or chickenpox) due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition affecting the brain and liver.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Aspirin should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in high doses or for prolonged periods, and only under medical supervision. It may be excreted in breast milk, so caution is advised when used during breastfeeding.
• Interactions: Aspirin can interact with other medications, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications. Always inform healthcare providers about all medications and supplements being taken to avoid potential interactions.

Always follow the prescribed dosage and recommendations from healthcare providers when using aspirin or any medication, and seek medical advice promptly if there are any concerns or unexpected side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for aspirin. However, to reduce the risk of stomach irritation, you may consider taking aspirin with food or milk. Additionally, if you are taking aspirin for cardiovascular protection, maintaining a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is beneficial.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of aspirin at the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aspirin, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of aspirin include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects: Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining, potentially leading to stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, or even gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, especially with long-term use or high doses.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to aspirin, which can range from mild skin rashes to more severe symptoms such as swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or asthma attacks in those with aspirin-sensitive asthma.
• Bleeding: Aspirin inhibits platelet function and can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken in high doses or in combination with other blood-thinning medications like warfarin or clopidogrel.
• Renal Effects: Long-term or high-dose aspirin use may impair kidney function in some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing kidney disease.
• Reye’s Syndrome: Aspirin should generally be avoided in children and adolescents recovering from viral infections (especially influenza or chickenpox) due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition affecting the brain and liver.
• Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): Some people may experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus) as a side effect of aspirin use, especially at higher doses.
• Liver Toxicity: Although rare, high doses of aspirin can potentially cause liver toxicity or abnormal liver function tests.
• Other Effects: Aspirin can rarely cause other side effects such as dizziness, confusion, or changes in blood electrolyte levels.

It’s important to note that these side effects can vary in severity and occurrence depending on factors such as the dose, duration of use, individual health status, and other medications being taken. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking aspirin, it’s crucial to notify your healthcare provider promptly.

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

Storage of Aspirin:

• Room Temperature: Store aspirin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Container: Keep aspirin in its original container or packaging, tightly closed.
• Childproofing: Ensure the container is child-resistant and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid Bathroom Storage: Do not store aspirin in the bathroom due to humidity, which can affect its stability.

Disposal of Aspirin:

• Expiration Date: Check the expiration date on the aspirin container and dispose of expired medication properly.
• Guidelines: Follow local guidelines for medication disposal. Typically, this involves mixing aspirin with an undesirable substance (like coffee grounds or cat litter) in a sealed plastic bag before disposing of it in the trash.
• Do Not Flush: Do not flush aspirin down the toilet unless instructed to do so by specific disposal instructions or local regulations.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms: Symptoms of aspirin overdose may include ringing in the ears (tinnitus), rapid breathing, confusion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and potentially severe symptoms such as seizures or coma.
• Seek Immediate Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after taking aspirin, call emergency services (911 in the US) immediately.
• Poison Control: Contact a poison control center (e.g., Poison Help hotline in the US at 1-800-222-1222) for guidance on what to do next.
• Provide Information: Have information ready such as the amount of aspirin taken, when it was taken, and the person’s age and weight.

What other information should I know?

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially asthma, bleeding disorders, kidney disease, or stomach ulcers.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as aspirin can interact with other medications.
• 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 cardiovascular protection, your doctor may monitor your kidney function and conduct regular blood tests to check for any adverse effects.
• Routine Check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to discuss the effectiveness and safety of aspirin therapy.

By following these guidelines for storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and other important information, you can safely use aspirin and minimize risks associated with its use. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about taking aspirin.