Why is this medication prescribed?

Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is prescribed for various medical conditions due to its analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties. Here are some common reasons why aspirin might be prescribed:

• Pain relief: Aspirin is often used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, and minor injuries.
• Fever reduction: Aspirin can help reduce fever in individuals with infections or other causes of elevated body temperature.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Aspirin is used to reduce inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and other inflammatory disorders.
• Cardiovascular health: Low-dose aspirin (usually 81mg) may be prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in individuals at high risk or with a history of cardiovascular disease. It works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots.
• Prevention of stroke: Aspirin may be prescribed to individuals who have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or ischemic stroke to reduce the risk of future strokes.

How should this medicine be used?

As for how aspirin should be used, it’s essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or as directed on the label. Here are some general guidelines:

• Dosage: The dosage of aspirin can vary depending on the condition being treated. It’s crucial to take the correct dosage as prescribed by your doctor. For pain relief and fever reduction, the typical adult dose is 325-650mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4 grams (4000mg) in 24 hours. However, lower doses (81mg) are often used for cardiovascular protection.
• Administration: Aspirin is usually taken orally with a full glass of water. It can be taken with food or milk to help reduce stomach upset.
• Avoid alcohol: Consuming alcohol while taking aspirin can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. It’s advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking aspirin.
• Do not crush or chew: Swallow the aspirin tablet whole unless it is a chewable or effervescent form designed to be dissolved in water.
• Consult your doctor: If you have any questions or concerns about how to use aspirin, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
• Regular use: If you’re taking aspirin for its cardiovascular benefits, it’s important to take it regularly as prescribed by your doctor, even if you’re feeling well.

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of aspirin or any other medication. They can provide tailored recommendations based on individual health needs and considerations.

Other uses for this medicine

• Prevention of Blood Clots: As mentioned, aspirin is used in low doses to prevent blood clots, particularly in individuals at risk of cardiovascular events.
• Prevention of Preeclampsia: Low-dose aspirin may be prescribed to pregnant women at risk of developing preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy.
• Reducing Cancer Risk: Some research suggests that long-term aspirin use may lower the risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. However, this is still under investigation, and aspirin should not be taken solely for this purpose without medical advice.

What special precautions should I follow?

Aspirin is generally considered safe when used as directed, but there are some special precautions to keep in mind:

• Allergies: If you have a known allergy to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), you should avoid taking aspirin unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
• Bleeding risk: Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. This risk may be higher in individuals with a history of ulcers, bleeding disorders, or those taking anticoagulant medications. Use caution and consult your doctor if you are at increased risk of bleeding.
• Interaction with other medications: Aspirin can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, corticosteroids, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and others. Make sure to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Stomach irritation: Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. Taking aspirin with food or using enteric-coated formulations may help reduce this risk.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Aspirin should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it may increase the risk of bleeding and complications for both the mother and the baby. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using aspirin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Children and teenagers: As mentioned earlier, aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers with viral infections due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of aspirin, and inform them of any medical conditions you have or medications you are taking to ensure safe and effective use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Avoiding alcohol: Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of stomach bleeding when combined with aspirin. Limit or avoid alcohol while taking aspirin.
• Food with aspirin: Taking aspirin with food or milk can help reduce the risk of stomach upset or irritation. Follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding food intake with aspirin.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take 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 double the dose to catch up. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance. It’s important to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to achieve the desired therapeutic effects of aspirin.

What side effects can this medication cause?

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

• Stomach irritation: Aspirin can irritate the lining of the stomach, leading to symptoms such as nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or abdominal pain. Taking aspirin with food or using enteric-coated formulations can help reduce stomach irritation.
• Gastrointestinal bleeding: Long-term use of aspirin, especially at high doses, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers. This risk is higher in individuals with a history of ulcers, bleeding disorders, or those taking anticoagulant medications.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to aspirin, ranging from mild skin rash or hives to severe reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema) or difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction.
• Bleeding risk: Aspirin inhibits the formation of blood clots, which can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications. It’s important to use caution and consult your doctor if you’re at increased risk of bleeding.
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears): Some individuals may experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or hearing loss as a side effect of aspirin use. These symptoms typically resolve upon discontinuation of aspirin.
• Liver and kidney function: Prolonged use of aspirin, particularly at high doses, may affect liver and kidney function in some individuals. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be necessary in certain cases.
• Reye’s syndrome: As mentioned earlier, aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers with viral infections due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that affects the brain and liver.
• Other side effects: Other less common side effects of aspirin may include dizziness, headache, confusion, easy bruising, and changes in blood pressure.

If you experience any concerning side effects while taking aspirin, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance. They can help determine whether any adjustments to your treatment are necessary to minimize side effects and ensure your safety.

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

Storage and disposal of aspirin:

Storage:

• Keep aspirin tablets in their original container with the lid tightly closed, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Store aspirin at room temperature, typically between 68-77°F (20-25°C).
• Keep aspirin out of reach of children and pets, as accidental ingestion can lead to serious harm.
• Do not transfer aspirin to other containers unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Disposal:

• Dispose of expired or unused aspirin properly to prevent accidental ingestion or environmental contamination.
• Check the medication label or package insert for specific disposal instructions. Some medications can be flushed down the toilet or sink, while others should be disposed of in household trash.
• If unsure about how to dispose of aspirin safely, consult with a pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact emergency services (such as 911 in the United States) or a poison control center immediately for assistance.
• Provide information about the type and amount of aspirin ingested, as well as any symptoms experienced.
• If someone has collapsed or is not breathing, administer CPR if you are trained to do so, and continue until medical help arrives.
• Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional.

What other information should I know?

• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your aspirin use, including any other medications or supplements you’re taking.
• Attend regular check-ups with your doctor if you’re taking aspirin for long-term use, especially for cardiovascular protection, to monitor for potential side effects and assess treatment effectiveness.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dose and duration of aspirin treatment.
• If you’re undergoing surgery or dental procedures, inform your healthcare provider about your aspirin use, as it may need to be temporarily discontinued to reduce the risk of bleeding complications.
• Avoid taking other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) while using aspirin, unless directed by your doctor, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
• If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using aspirin, as it may not be safe for use during certain stages of pregnancy.