Aspirin: Uses, Dosages, and Side Effects

US Brand Name:

{Bayer Aspirin} (Aspirin)

Pharmacologic category:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Other medications in this category include {ibuprofen} (Advil, Motrin), {naproxen} (Aleve, Naprosyn), and {diclofenac} (Voltaren).

Conditions treated and dosages:

{Acute myocardial infarction} (heart attack): 162-325 mg, chewable, once

{Unstable angina}: 81-325 mg, daily

{Stable angina}: 81-325 mg, daily

{Ischemic stroke}: 162-325 mg, daily

{Transient ischemic attack} (TIA): 50-325 mg, daily

{Coronary artery disease}: 81-325 mg, daily

{Peripheral artery disease}: 75-325 mg, daily

{Atrial fibrillation} (as part of anticoagulant therapy): 75-100 mg, daily

{Venous thromboembolism} (as part of anticoagulant therapy): 75-100 mg, daily

{Fever}: 325-650 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Rheumatic fever}: 80 mg, daily

{Mild to moderate pain}: 325-650 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Headache}: 325-1000 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Migraine} (acute treatment and prevention): 500-1000 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Toothache}: 325-650 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Menstrual cramps}: 500-1000 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Osteoarthritis}: 650-1000 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Rheumatoid arthritis}: 650-1000 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Inflammatory diseases}: 325-650 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Kawasaki disease}: 80-100 mg/kg/day, divided into 4 doses

{Pericarditis}: 650-1000 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

{Postoperative pain and inflammation}: 325-650 mg, every 4-6 hours as needed

Dosage Forms and strengths:

Tablet: 81 mg, 325 mg, 500 mg
Chewable tablet: 81 mg
Enteric-coated tablet: 81 mg, 325 mg
Extended-release capsule: 162.5 mg

Administration Instructions:

Swallow tablets or capsules whole with a full glass of water.
Chewable tablets should be chewed before swallowing.
Enteric-coated tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or broken.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:

{Gastrointestinal bleeding} (rare): Bleeding in the stomach or intestines
{Gastric ulcer} (rare): Open sores in the lining of the stomach
{Tinnitus} (infrequent): Ringing or buzzing in the ears
{Nausea} (common): Feeling sick to the stomach
{Heartburn} (common): Burning sensation in the chest or throat
{Vomiting} (less common): Forceful expulsion of stomach contents
{Allergic reactions} (rare): Hives, facial swelling, difficulty breathing

Contraindications:

Active {gastrointestinal bleeding} or history of recurrent bleeding
Severe liver or kidney disease
{Hemorrhagic stroke}
Third trimester of pregnancy
Use of {anticoagulant medications} (unless prescribed by a healthcare professional)

Drug-to-Drug Interactions:

{Warfarin} (Coumadin, Jantoven): Increased risk of bleeding
{Ibuprofen} (Advil, Motrin): Reduced antiplatelet effect of aspirin
{Naproxen} (Aleve, Naprosyn): Reduced antiplatelet effect of aspirin
{Diclofenac} (Voltaren): Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
{Corticosteroids} (e.g., prednisone): Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (e.g., {fluoxetine} [Prozac], {sertraline} [Zoloft]): Increased risk of bleeding
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (e.g., {lisinopril} [Prinivil, Zestril], {enalapril} [Vasotec]): Reduced antihypertensive effect

Pregnancy:

Aspirin is generally not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, as it may cause harm to the fetus or complications during delivery. Consult a healthcare professional before using aspirin during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding:

Aspirin is not recommended for use while breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant. Consult a healthcare professional before using aspirin while breastfeeding.

Estimated price of a 30-day supply without insurance and using GoodRx coupon:

The cost of a 30-day supply of aspirin can vary depending on the strength and dosage form. For a 30-day supply of 81 mg enteric-coated tablets, the estimated cost is around $3-$7 using a GoodRx coupon. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.