Aspirin is one of the oldest and best-known medicines. At regular doses it relieves pain, fever, and inflammation. At low doses, doctors use it to help prevent blood clots in people at risk of heart attack or stroke. It can cause bleeding, so take it only when it suits you.
What Is Aspirin Used For?
- Mild to moderate pain and fever
- Preventing another heart attack or stroke in people who have already had one
- Treating a suspected heart attack, when a doctor or emergency team advises it
- Reducing inflammation in some conditions
How Does Aspirin Work?
Aspirin blocks the enzymes that make prostaglandins and a substance called thromboxane. Fewer prostaglandins reduce pain and fever, and less thromboxane makes platelets less sticky, which lowers the chance of clots.
General Dosage Information
This is general information only. Your doctor sets the right dose for you, so follow your prescription and the label.
- For pain or fever, adults usually take 300 mg to 900 mg every four to six hours, up to 4,000 mg a day.
- For heart protection, doctors usually advise a low dose of 75 mg to 100 mg once a day. Do not start it on your own, because the risk of bleeding can outweigh the benefit.
- Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers under 16, because it can cause Reye’s syndrome.
Side Effects of Aspirin
Common Side Effects
- Stomach upset and heartburn
- Nausea
- Easy bruising
Serious Side Effects
Call your doctor or get emergency help if you notice:
- Black stools or vomiting blood
- Ringing in the ears or hearing changes, especially at high doses
- Wheezing or swelling of the face
- Signs of a stroke caused by bleeding in the brain, such as sudden severe headache
Who Should Be Cautious?
- People with stomach ulcers, bleeding problems, or asthma triggered by NSAIDs
- People with kidney or liver disease
- Pregnant women, especially in the last three months
- Children and teenagers
- People who are about to have surgery or dental work
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about every medicine and supplement you take. Examples of important interactions include:
- Warfarin and other blood thinners: together they raise the risk of bleeding.
- Other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen: they raise the risk of bleeding and can weaken aspirin’s heart protection.
- Methotrexate: aspirin can raise its level.
- SSRIs: they add to the risk of bleeding.
Storage and Precautions
- Store it at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.
- Keep it out of the reach of children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I take aspirin every day?
Only if your doctor tells you to. Daily aspirin does not suit everyone.
Can I take it on an empty stomach?
Take it with food or a full glass of water to protect your stomach.
What if I think I am having a heart attack?
Call emergency services first. They will tell you whether to chew aspirin.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It is not medical advice. Please talk to your doctor about your own health.