Before taking aspirin

Before taking aspirin make sure your doctor, dentist or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are under 16 years of age or over 65 years of age.
• If you have asthma or any other allergic disorder.
• If you have ever had a stomach ulcer.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have gout.
• If you have a blood disorder such as haemophilia or G6PD deficiency.
• If you have ever had an allergic or unusual reaction to any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as naproxen, diclofenac and ibuprofen.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other medicine.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take aspirin

• Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from the pack.
• Take aspirin exactly as you have been directed by your doctor, dentist or pharmacist, or as directed on the label of the container. Dosage instructions may vary depending on the type of aspirin you are taking and the condition you are being treated for.
• If you have been supplied aspirin tablets or dispersible tablets, you should take these with a meal, or after a snack. This will help prevent indigestion as a result of irritation to your stomach.
• Dispersible (or soluble) tablets, should be taken dissolved into a small glass of water before swallowing.
• If you have been supplied aspirin enteric-coated tablets you should swallow them whole with a drink of water. Do not chew or crush these tablets as this will damage the special coating. Also, if you take indigestion remedies, do not take them two hours before or after you take enteric-coated aspirin tablets.
• You should drink plenty of water while you are taking aspirin. This is because aspirin may cause problems if you take it when you are dehydrated.

If you have been supplied aspirin suppositories, follow the instructions below for use:

1. If the suppository is too soft, it may be chilled in the refrigerator or under cold running water before unwrapping. Remove the wrapping and moisten the suppository with water.
2. Lie on your side and draw your knees up towards your chest.
3. Using your finger, gently push the suppository into your back passage as far as possible, pointed end first.
4. Lower your legs to a comfortable position to help you to hold the suppository in place.
5. Wash you hands afterwards.

Getting the most from your treatment

• 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 a condition known as Reye's syndrome when it is given to children. Reye's syndrome is a very rare condition, but it can be fatal.
• Do not take any other medicines containing aspirin at the same time as this medicine. Remember many common 'over-the-counter' preparations also contain aspirin. Always read the label to check, or ask your pharmacist for advice.
• Taking too much aspirin can cause serious problems. If you suspect that you have taken more than the prescribed dose, or if a child has accidentally taken aspirin, contact your local accident and emergency department for advice straight away.

Can aspirin cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

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

If you experience any unusual bleeding or 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 August 2010.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Nu-Seals® 300, Alliance Pharmaceuticals, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated September 2010.
• British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)