Why is this medication prescribed?

Aspirin, which contains acetylsalicylic acid, is primarily prescribed for its analgesic (pain-relieving), antipyretic (fever-reducing), and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, and arthritis.

Diphenhydramine, on the other hand, is an antihistamine that is often used for its sedative effects. It’s commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergies, such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. In combination with aspirin, diphenhydramine may be used for its additional sedative effects to aid in pain relief or to promote sleep.

The combination of aspirin and diphenhydramine might be prescribed for conditions where both pain relief and sedation are needed, such as for certain types of headaches or migraines, or for nighttime relief of pain and discomfort. However, it’s important to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions carefully and be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

How should this medicine be used?

Aspirin should be used exactly as directed by your healthcare provider or as indicated on the medication label. Here are some general guidelines for using aspirin:

• Dosage: The appropriate dosage of aspirin can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual factors such as age and medical history. Always follow the recommended dosage provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Aspirin is typically taken orally with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. Follow the instructions provided on the medication label or as directed by your doctor.
• Frequency: The frequency of dosing can vary depending on the condition being treated. Some people may need to take aspirin once daily for certain conditions, while others may take it as needed for pain relief. Again, follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the frequency of dosing.
• Duration: Do not use aspirin for longer than recommended unless instructed to do so by your doctor. Using aspirin for extended periods or at high doses can increase the risk of side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Special Instructions: If you are taking aspirin for a specific medical condition, such as heart disease or stroke prevention, your doctor may provide specific instructions regarding the timing and duration of treatment.
• Avoid Alcohol: It’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.
• Storage: Store aspirin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.
• Seek Medical Advice: If you have any questions or concerns about how to use aspirin, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

Remember, aspirin is a medication with potential risks and side effects, so it’s important to use it responsibly and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Other uses for this medicine

Aspirin is commonly used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and lowering fever. Here’s how it’s typically used:

• Pain Relief: Aspirin is often used to alleviate mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, and muscle aches.
• Fever Reduction: It can help reduce fever, particularly in cases of flu or other infections.
• Anti-inflammatory: Aspirin is effective in reducing inflammation, making it useful for conditions like arthritis or injuries causing swelling.
• Blood Thinning: It is also used for its antiplatelet effect, meaning it helps prevent blood clot formation. This property is often utilized in preventing heart attacks and strokes, especially for individuals at risk or those with a history of cardiovascular events.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow when taking aspirin include:

• Bleeding Risk: Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in higher doses or when taken for extended periods. This includes gastrointestinal bleeding, bleeding in the brain, and easy bruising. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications should use aspirin with caution and under medical supervision.
• Stomach Irritation: Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and may cause gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding, particularly in individuals with a history of stomach ulcers or gastritis. To reduce this risk, aspirin can be taken with food or in enteric-coated formulations designed to dissolve in the small intestine rather than the stomach.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may include hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction after taking aspirin.
• Drug Interactions: Aspirin can interact with other medications, including blood thinners, corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and some herbal supplements. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Children and Adolescents: As mentioned earlier, aspirin should not be used to treat fever in children and adolescents due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that affects the liver and brain.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping aspirin therapy, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. They can provide guidance tailored to your individual needs and help minimize the risk of adverse effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for aspirin are generally not necessary. However, if you’re taking aspirin to reduce the risk of stomach irritation, you may consider taking it with food or a glass of milk to help protect your stomach lining.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of aspirin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s 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. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aspirin can cause a range of side effects, which can vary in severity depending on factors such as dosage, individual susceptibility, and duration of use. Common side effects of aspirin include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects: Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal ulcers. In severe cases, gastrointestinal bleeding can occur, leading to symptoms such as black, tarry stools or vomiting blood.
• Bleeding: Aspirin can interfere with blood clotting, which may increase the risk of bleeding. This can manifest as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, nosebleeds, or bleeding gums. In some cases, aspirin use can lead to more serious bleeding events, such as gastrointestinal bleeding or bleeding in the brain.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to aspirin, which can range from mild skin reactions (such as rash or itching) to more severe reactions (such as swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis).
• Kidney Effects: Long-term or high-dose aspirin use can impair kidney function, leading to decreased urine output, swelling of the legs or feet, or worsening of pre-existing kidney conditions.
• Liver Effects: In rare cases, aspirin can cause liver toxicity, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or abnormal liver function tests.
• Asthma Exacerbation: Aspirin use can trigger asthma attacks or worsen asthma symptoms in individuals with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), also known as aspirin-sensitive asthma.
• Reye’s Syndrome: As mentioned earlier, aspirin should not be used to treat fever or pain in children and adolescents due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that affects the liver and brain.
• Tinnitus: Some individuals may experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus) as a side effect of aspirin use, particularly at higher doses.

These are not the only potential side effects of aspirin, and individuals may experience other adverse reactions. It’s essential to be aware of the possible side effects of aspirin and to seek medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms while taking it. If you have questions or concerns about aspirin’s side effects, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

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 packaging or container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets. Avoid storing aspirin in the bathroom or kitchen, where moisture levels can be higher.
• Disposal: Dispose of aspirin properly to prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or others. Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or local waste disposal authorities. You can also consider using a drug take-back program or community disposal program to safely dispose of unused or expired medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose of aspirin or experience severe symptoms after taking aspirin, such as difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, seizures, confusion, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room. Be sure to bring the aspirin container or information with you to the emergency department.

What other information should I know?

• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking, as aspirin can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, corticosteroids, and others.
• Avoid consuming alcohol while taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.
• If you are scheduled for surgery or dental procedures, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking aspirin, as it may need to be temporarily discontinued to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.
• Keep track of your aspirin dosage and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Do not exceed the recommended dose without medical supervision.
• If you have any questions or concerns about aspirin use, including its potential side effects or interactions, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

By following these guidelines for storage, disposal, and emergency response, you can use aspirin safely and effectively for its intended purposes.