Aspirin

    0

    About this medicine

    Generic name Aspirin
    Active ingredients Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)
    Brand names (as verified) Ecosprin; Disprin; Bayer Aspirin (brand availability varies by market)
    Dosage form Tablet
    Strength Strengths vary widely by intended use; low-dose tablets and higher-strength pain-relief products are not interchangeable.
    Prescription classification Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
    Approved routes of administration Oral
    Applies to IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction

    Approved indications

    • A salicylate used in some products for pain, fever and inflammation. Low-dose aspirin is prescribed for selected patients to reduce clot-related cardiovascular events; preventive use should be based on an individual clinician’s assessment.

    Contraindications (do not use if…)

    • Avoid with active significant bleeding, serious salicylate or NSAID hypersensitivity, or a history of aspirin-triggered respiratory reactions. Children and teenagers with viral illness should not receive aspirin unless a specialist specifically directs it.

    Important precautions

    • Can irritate the stomach and increase bleeding risk. Do not start daily aspirin for heart protection without medical advice. Review ulcer history, asthma, kidney disease, alcohol use and any upcoming surgery. Pregnancy use depends on dose and indication; prescribed low-dose therapy requires clinician supervision.

    Common side effects

    • Possible effects include stomach discomfort, heartburn, nausea and easier bruising.

    Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care

    • Serious risks include gastrointestinal bleeding, severe allergy, intracranial bleeding and salicylate toxicity. Ringing in the ears, rapid breathing or confusion may signal toxicity.

    Important interactions

    • Bleeding risk can rise with anticoagulants, antiplatelet medicines, other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, some antidepressants and alcohol. Aspirin can also interact with methotrexate and selected blood-pressure medicines.

    Allergy considerations

    • Do not use after a serious aspirin or salicylate reaction. People with NSAID-sensitive asthma should seek professional guidance before use.

    Pregnancy and lactation

    Pregnancy safety Generally avoided
    Notes
    • Do not self-start aspirin during pregnancy. Low-dose aspirin may be prescribed for specific obstetric indications, but this requires clinician supervision; pain-relief doses have different risks.

    Information

    Lactation safety Use with caution — see notes
    Notes
    • Ask a healthcare professional before use while breastfeeding, particularly for repeated or high doses or when the infant is ill.

    Children and older adults

    • Do not give to children or teenagers with suspected viral illness unless a specialist specifically directs it. Older adults have greater bleeding risk.

    Storage

    • Store in the original package in a dry place at the temperature stated on the label. Keep away from children and discard tablets that show signs of deterioration.

    Missed dose

    • For prescribed antiplatelet use, follow the prescriber’s advice and do not double the next dose. For pain-relief use, follow the product instructions.

    Overdose

    • Aspirin overdose can be life-threatening. Seek emergency medical advice for suspected overdose, rapid breathing, confusion, vomiting or ringing in the ears.

    Based on 1 cited source. Sources last checked on 2026-10-28.

    This page is general information, not personal advice. Never change, start or stop any medicine without speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.

    References

    1. National Library of Medicine — National Library of Medicine source (Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
    2. RxNorm (National Library of Medicine) — RxNorm (National Library of Medicine) source (Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))