Aspirin

About aspirin

Aspirin can be used to relieve pain and inflammation caused by rheumatic and muscular pain, sprains, strains, backache, headache, toothache and period pain. It can also be used to treat cold and 'flu-like' symptoms and reduce fever in adults (over 16 years of age).

Aspirin works by reducing the production of chemicals called prostaglandins which cause pain and inflammation.

Aspirin is also used in lower doses to reduce the stickiness of platelets in the blood which helps prevent unwanted blood clots from forming within the body. There is more information about this in a separate leaflet called 'Aspirin anti-platelet'.

Before taking aspirin

Before taking aspirin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from gout.
• If you are under 16 years of age.
• If you have a blood disorder such as haemophilia or G6PD deficiency.
• If you have ever had a peptic ulcer (stomach ulcer).
• If you suffer from asthma or an allergic disorder.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer from indigestion, heartburn or any other digestive or bowel problem.
• If you have ever had an unusual or allergic type reaction from taking aspirin or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs include ibuprofen, diclofenac, indometacin and naproxen.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other medicine.

How to take aspirin

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Always take aspirin exactly as directed by your doctor. Dosage instructions may vary depending on the type of aspirin you are taking and the condition you are being treated for.
• Take aspirin tablets and dispersible tablets with or after eating food to avoid stomach irritation.
• If you have been supplied soluble or dispersible tablets, dissolve them into a small glass of water before swallowing.
• If you have been supplied the enteric-coated tablets, swallow them whole, not crushed or chewed and if you take indigestion remedies, do not take them at the same time of day as the enteric-coated tablets. Take them at least one hour before or two hours after a dose of aspirin.
• You should drink plenty of water while you are taking aspirin in order to avoid dehydration.
• If you are taking aspirin for arthritis or rheumatism, it is important to take your doses at the same times each day to avoid missing any.
• If you do forget to take a dose, do not worry, just take the next dose when it is due.

If you have been prescribed aspirin suppositories, follow the instructions below.

• If the suppository is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator or under cold running water before removing the wrapping.
• Unwrap the suppository and moisten it with a little water. Lie on your left side (if you are right-handed) and draw your knees up towards your chest, with the right leg drawn up more than the left. Reverse these instructions if you are left-handed.
• Using your index finger or middle finger (whichever you find easier), gently push the suppository into the rectum (back passage), pointed end first. Insert it as far as possible.
• Lower your legs to a comfortable position to help you to hold the suppository in place.

Getting the most from your treatment

• It is recommended that preparations containing aspirin should not be given to children under the age of 16 unless it has been prescribed by a doctor to treat a specific condition. Aspirin must not be given to children under the age of 16 to treat minor illnesses. This is because there is a possible association between aspirin and Reye's syndrome when given to children. Reye's syndrome is a very rare disease that can be fatal.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, especially cold and flu preparations which may also contain aspirin, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside aspirin.
• If you suspect that a child has taken aspirin or an adult has taken more than the prescribed dose, contact your local accident and emergency department for advice straight away.

Can aspirin cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

• swelling of the lips, mouth and throat,
• sudden skin rash,
• wheezing or breathing problems.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store aspirin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Aspirin Tablets 300 mg, (Activis UK Ltd), electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2008, accessed September 2009.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Soluble Aspirin Tablets 300 mg (Boots Company plc), electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated August 2008, accessed September 2009.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Nu-Seals® 300, Alliance Pharmaceuticals, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated December 2008, accessed September 2009.
• British National Formulary; 57th Edition (March 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.