Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)
Drug Class:
NSAIDs
Brand Names:
Anacin, Bayer, Bufferin, Ecotrin
Dosages
3,000 to 4,000 mg daily in three to four doses.
Potential Side Effects
Abdominal cramps, pain or discomfort; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; headache; heartburn; nausea; swelling of the feet; vomiting.
Special Instructions
Do not take with other prescription or over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Take at the same time every day.
Take with food or an antacid.
Do not take for more than 10 days for pain or more than 3 days for fever unless directed by a doctor.
Be Aware
If you are taking more than 3,600 mg of aspirin per day, your doctor should monitor salicylate levels in your blood. Ulcers and internal bleeding can occur without warning. Confusion, deafness, dizziness or ringing in the ears indicates you are taking too much. Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol, use blood thinners, or are sensitive to aspirin or similar drugs.
Do not take with aspirin or other products containing aspirin unless told to do so by a doctor. Confusion, deafness, dizziness or ringing in the ears is a sign that you are taking too much of this drug. If you are taking more than 3,600 mg of aspirin per day, your doctor should monitor salicylate levels in your blood. Ulcers and internal bleeding can occur without warning. Before taking any type of NSAID, also tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or take blood thinners (including warfarin), ACE inhibitors, lithium or furosemide. Also report any sensitivity or allergy to aspirin or similar drugs. Do not take NSAIDs late in pregnancy.
