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Aspirin is an over-the-counter drug. The indication for its use is, among others inflammation, pain and fever of any origin. As with all medicines, Aspirin may also cause side effects. However, it should be remembered that they will not appear for everyone. What is worth paying attention to before taking Aspirin?
Aspirin is a known medicine for pain and fever. The main component of the drug is acetylsalicylic acid. Aspirin can be used to combat the symptoms of colds, flu and as part of the prevention of cardiovascular diseases among people at risk.
Aspirin – composition
Aspirin contains acetylsalicylic acid, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. As a result, the drug has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties, and also prevents platelet aggregation.
Aspirin – indications
Aspirin should be used primarily during low and medium intensity pain, and also to reduce fever.
Aspirin – contraindications
Contraindication to the use of Aspirin is allergy to any of the ingredients or hypersensitivity to other salicylates. You should also abandon the use of Aspirin if you have ever experienced asthma attacks or bronchospasm after taking NSAIDs or salicylates.
Aspirin is not indicated for:
- high risk of bleeding (bleeding disorder);
- gastric or duodenal ulcer;
- severe liver, kidney or heart failure;
- use of methotrexate in doses of 15 mg per week or more;
- III trimester of pregnancy;
- children under 12 with viral infections, as Rey’s syndrome may develop.
Aspirin – precautions
Caution should be exercised when taking Aspirin in the case of:
- hypersensitivity;
- concomitant anticoagulant medications;
- the use of ibuprofen;
- liver or kidney disorders;
- peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding;
- glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.
The use of Aspirin should also be abandoned during surgery, at least a few days before the procedure. When taking Aspirin, bloody vomiting or tarry stools may appear, which are an indication for immediate discontinuation of the drug.
Aspirin may also impair female fertility. However, it has no influence on the ability to drive and use machines. The drug is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult a physician prior to administration. It is also necessary to inform him about other medications taken, including those without a prescription.
Aspirin – dosage
Aspirin is in the form of tablets for oral use. Do not use Aspirin for more than 3-5 days without consulting your doctor. The recommended dosage is:
- adults – 1-2 tablets every 4-8 hours, however not more than 8 tablets during the day;
- adolescents up to 12 years of age – 1 tablet every 4-8 hours;
- under 12 years of age – no more than 3 tablets a day.
Aspirin – side effects
Aspirin, like any other drug, may cause side effects. Possible side effects may concern the digestive system (e.g. nausea, gastrointestinal bleeding), but also headache, dizziness, higher risk of bleeding (even life-threatening), kidney disorders, weakness, hematological disorders, gout attacks or symptoms hypersensitivity (including life-threatening anaphylactic shock).
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Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.