Aspirin: What Is It? What Is It Used For? Dosage Instructions, Side Effects, and Warnings
- Active Ingredient: Acetylsalicylic Acid
- Indications:
- Pain Relief (Analgesic): Used for mild to moderate pain relief, including headaches, muscle aches, toothaches, and menstrual cramps.
- Fever Reduction (Antipyretic): Reduces fever associated with various infections.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.
- Cardiovascular Protection: Used to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in individuals with cardiovascular disease or those at risk.
- Dosage Instructions:
- Adults: Typically 50–100 mg orally every 4-6 hours as needed for pain or fever relief.
- Children: Aspirin is generally not recommended for children due to the risk of Reye’s Syndrome. Dosage for children should only be administered under medical supervision.
- Special Instructions: Long-term use or higher doses should only be under the supervision of a healthcare provider to monitor potential side effects.
- Side Effects:
- Common: Upset stomach, nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Severe: Stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
- Rare but serious: Allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, anaphylaxis.
- If any severe side effects occur, seek immediate medical attention.
- Warnings:
- Gastrointestinal Problems: Use with caution in individuals with a history of stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or digestive disorders.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. Consult a doctor if breastfeeding.
- Allergic Reactions: Do not use if allergic to aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
- Blood Disorders: Caution is advised for individuals with bleeding disorders as aspirin may increase bleeding risk.
- Drug Interactions:
- Blood Thinners: Can interact with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Other Pain Relievers: Avoid taking with other NSAIDs or over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
- Alcohol: Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding when combined with aspirin.
- Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking.
- Storage Instructions:
- Keep at room temperature, away from moisture and direct light.
- Store in a dry place, ensuring it is out of reach of children.
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Expiration Date:
- Check the expiration date on the packaging. Do not use after the expiration date as the medication may lose its effectiveness or become unsafe.