Aspirin is a widely used over-the-counter medication that alleviates pain, reduces fever, and decreases inflammation. Understanding its appropriate dosage and safety considerations is important. This article offers general guidance on aspirin use, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Dosage for Common Relief
For managing everyday aches, pains, and fevers, aspirin is available in various forms, including tablets and capsules. Common strengths for oral tablets include 81 mg, 325 mg, and 500 mg. The typical adult dose for pain or fever ranges from 325 mg to 650 mg, taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not exceed a maximum daily dose of 3,900 mg (3.9 grams) within a 24-hour period.
Take aspirin with food or a full glass of water to minimize stomach upset. Do not use aspirin for more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever unless advised by a doctor. Aspirin is not recommended for individuals under 16, especially if they have a viral illness like the flu or chickenpox. This is due to the association with Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can lead to brain and liver damage. For pediatric pain and fever relief, acetaminophen or ibuprofen are safer alternatives.
Aspirin for Cardiovascular Health
Low-dose aspirin helps prevent cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. It works by inhibiting the function of platelets, small blood cells involved in clotting. Aspirin reduces the production of a substance that promotes platelet aggregation and clot formation. This antiplatelet effect makes the blood less prone to clotting.
The typical low dosage for cardiovascular health is 81 mg or 100 mg daily, often called “baby aspirin.” This regimen is prescribed for individuals with a history of heart attack, stroke, or those at high risk for such events. The benefits of low-dose aspirin for preventing a first-time heart attack or stroke may not outweigh the risks for everyone, especially for those aged 60 and older. Initiate low-dose aspirin therapy for cardiovascular prevention only under a doctor’s guidance.
Important Considerations and Precautions
Despite its common use, aspirin carries risks and is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain conditions should avoid aspirin, including those with bleeding disorders like hemophilia, a history of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, or severe liver or kidney disease. People with asthma may also experience adverse reactions. An allergy to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is also a contraindication.
Common side effects of aspirin include stomach upset, heartburn, and nausea. More serious side effects can occur, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, which may manifest as black, tarry stools or vomiting that looks like coffee grounds. Other serious, though less common, effects include ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss, and allergic reactions like hives, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling.
Aspirin can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of adverse effects. These include blood thinners (anticoagulants), other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen, and certain blood pressure medications. Alcohol consumption can also heighten the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when combined with aspirin.
Symptoms of aspirin overdose include persistent ringing in the ears, confusion, rapid breathing, severe vomiting, and dizziness. If severe side effects occur or an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention is necessary. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting aspirin, especially if taking other medications or having chronic health conditions.