Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and a salicylate used to relieve fever, inflammation, and pain from conditions like headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, etc. It works by reducing or blocking the substances in the brain that trigger pain and inflammation.

For severe pain, you may need to use aspirin with other medications. However, this drug is usually not recommended for people below 18, or if a doctor prescribes it, the patient will be under supervision. 

How to take Aspirin

If you are using aspirin for self-treatment, follow the directions on the product package or ask your pharmacist for guidance on how to use it based on your condition. Take the drug as prescribed, and do not increase or decrease the dosage without consulting your pharmacist or doctor. 

You may take this medication with food or a glass of milk, take it by mouth and drink a full glass of water. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking the drug. Also, do not chew extended-release capsules or tablets, swallow them whole. Crushing or chewing drugs you are supposed to swallow can release all the medications into your system at once, increasing the risk of side effects.   

Side Effects

The common side effects of aspirin include:

• Indigestion
• Gut or stomach irritation.
• Nausea.

Some less common side effects include:

• Vomiting.
• Bruising.
• Stomach bleeding.
• Worsening asthma symptoms.
• Stomach inflammation. 

Some more severe side effects of this medication can include kidney failure, brain bleeding, and even haemorrhagic stroke. 

Precautions

Children and teenagers with flu, fever, or chickenpox should not take aspirin; it can increase the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a condition common in children that can lead to death.

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to it, and if you have a bleeding disorder such as haemophilia or a history of stomach ulcer or bleeding. 

In addition, if you have ever had an asthma attack, kidney disease, gout, heart conditions or an allergic reaction to any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), you should let your doctor know before taking aspirin. 

Do not use aspirin during late pregnancy without a doctor’s guidance. It may cause bleeding for the mother or child during delivery.