Aspirin

What is Aspirin?

Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory pain medication (analgesic) that is used to relieve headaches, toothaches, and minor aches and pains, and to reduce fever. It also temporarily relieves the minor aches and pains of arthritis, muscle aches, colds, flu, and menstrual discomfort. In some patients, a small daily dose of aspirin may be used to ensure sufficient blood flow to the brain and prevent stroke. Aspirin may also be taken to decrease recurrence of a heart attack or other heart problems.

What is the most important information I should know about Aspirin?

Aspirin should not be used during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. It may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.

Who should not take Aspirin?

Do not take aspirin if you are sensitive or allergic to it or similar products.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Aspirin?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with aspirin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have stomach problems, bleeding problems, ulcers, or chickenpox or flu symptoms.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Prevention of Heart Attack

Adults: The usual dose is 1 tablet daily. Your physician may suggest that you take a larger dose, however. If you use Halfprin low-strength tablets (162 milligrams), adjust dosage accordingly.

Prevention of Stroke

The usual dose is 1 tablet 4 times daily or 2 tablets 2 times a day.

Treatment of Minor Pain and Fever

The usual dose is 1 or 2 tablets every 3 to 4 hours up to 6 times a day.

How should I take Aspirin?

Do not take more than the recommended dose. Do not use aspirin if it has a strong, vinegar-like odor. If aspirin upsets your stomach, use of a coated or buffered brand may reduce the problem. Do not chew or crush sustained-release brands, such as Bayer time-release aspirin, or pills coated to delay breakdown of the drug, such as Ecotrin. To make them easier to swallow, take them with a full glass of water.

What should I avoid while taking Aspirin?

Avoid taking aspirin in the last trimester of pregnancy.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Aspirin?

If Aspirin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Aspirin with the following: acetazolamide, ACE-inhibitor-type blood pressure medications such as captopril, anti-gout medications such as allopurinol, arthritis medications such as ibuprofen and indomethacin, blood thinners such as warfarin sodium, certain diuretics such as furosemide, diabetes medications such as glyburide, diltiazem, dipyridamole, insulin, seizure medications such as valproic acid, and steroids such as prednisone.

What are the possible side effects of Aspirin?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: heartburn, nausea and/or vomiting, possible involvement in formation of stomach ulcers and bleeding, small amounts of blood in stool, stomach pain, stomach upset

Can I receive Aspirin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The use of aspirin during pregnancy should be discussed with your doctor. Aspirin should not be used during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless specifically indicated by your doctor. It may cause problems in the fetus and complications during delivery. Aspirin may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. Ask your doctor whether it is safe to take aspirin while you are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Aspirin?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Aspirin?

Store at room temperature.