Aspirin

Description

Aspirin 81 mg is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) formulated as enteric-coated tablets. The enteric coating is designed to prevent the tablet from dissolving in the stomach, thereby reducing gastrointestinal irritation. The product is tamper evident, and users are advised not to use it if the printed safety seal under the cap is broken or missing. For comprehensive warnings and product information, it is recommended to retain the outer carton.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains, or as recommended by a healthcare professional. Due to its delayed action, this product is not suitable for the immediate relief of headaches or other symptoms requiring prompt alleviation. Healthcare providers may be consulted regarding additional uses for safety coated 81 mg aspirin.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Patients should take the medication with a full glass of water to ensure proper administration and absorption.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 4 to 8 tablets every 4 hours. The total daily dosage should not exceed 48 tablets within a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

For children under 12 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor for appropriate dosing recommendations.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to aspirin or any other pain reliever or fever reducer. Additionally, it should not be administered to patients who have a history of allergic reactions to this product or any of its components.

Warnings and Precautions

Children and teenagers who are experiencing or recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should not use this product due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. If any changes in behavior accompanied by nausea and vomiting occur while using this product, it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional, as these symptoms may indicate the onset of this rare but serious illness.

Aspirin may provoke severe allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms of such reactions can include hives, facial swelling, shock, and asthma (wheezing). Healthcare professionals should be vigilant for these signs and advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

This product contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which carries a risk of severe stomach bleeding. The likelihood of this adverse effect is increased in patients who are 60 years of age or older, have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, are taking anticoagulants or steroid medications, are using other NSAIDs (including aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen), consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, or exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor prior to use if any of the following conditions apply: a history of stomach problems such as heartburn, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or if they are taking diuretics. Additionally, patients should be encouraged to seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist if they are currently prescribed medications for gout, diabetes, or arthritis.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) should be contacted without delay.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider if they experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives or swelling. They should also seek medical attention if they notice any symptoms indicative of stomach bleeding, including feeling faint, having bloody or black stools, vomiting blood, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Other concerning symptoms that warrant medical consultation include worsening pain lasting more than 10 days, fever that persists or worsens beyond three days, the presence of redness or swelling, ringing in the ears, loss of hearing, or the emergence of new symptoms, as these may signify a serious underlying condition.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of several serious adverse reactions associated with its use. Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious illness that may occur in children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms. If patients experience changes in behavior accompanied by nausea and vomiting while using this product, they should consult a doctor immediately, as these symptoms could indicate the onset of Reye's syndrome.

Additionally, there is a significant risk of severe allergic reactions to aspirin, which may manifest as hives, facial swelling, shock, or asthma (wheezing). Patients experiencing any signs of an allergic reaction should seek medical attention promptly.

This product contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which carries a risk of severe stomach bleeding. The likelihood of this adverse reaction is increased in patients who are 60 years of age or older, have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, are taking anticoagulants or steroid medications, are using other NSAIDs (including aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen), consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, or exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience any signs of an allergic reaction or symptoms indicative of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, having bloody or black stools, vomiting blood, or experiencing persistent stomach pain. Furthermore, if pain worsens or lasts longer than 10 days, if fever intensifies or persists beyond three days, if redness or swelling occurs, if there is ringing in the ears or loss of hearing, or if new symptoms arise, patients should seek medical advice, as these may be signs of a serious condition.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of anticoagulants or steroid medications is associated with an increased risk of severe gastrointestinal bleeding. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing these agents together and consider monitoring for signs of bleeding.

Additionally, the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including both prescription and over-the-counter options such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, further elevates the risk of severe stomach bleeding. It is advisable to evaluate the necessity of NSAID therapy in patients already receiving anticoagulants or steroids.

Patients taking prescription medications for gout, diabetes, or arthritis should consult their healthcare provider to assess potential interactions and the need for dosage adjustments or enhanced monitoring.

No specific interactions with laboratory tests have been identified in the available data.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Aspirin. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Pediatric Use

Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chicken pox or flu-like symptoms should not use this product due to the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness. If any changes in behavior accompanied by nausea and vomiting occur while using this product, it is essential to consult a doctor, as these may be early signs of Reye's syndrome.

For dosing, adults and children aged 12 years and older may take 4 to 8 tablets every 4 hours, with a maximum of 48 tablets in a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a doctor. For children under 12 years of age, consultation with a doctor is recommended prior to use.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients, particularly those aged 60 and older, are at an increased risk for severe stomach bleeding. It is essential for healthcare providers to exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients, especially if they have a history of stomach problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, or kidney disease.

Before initiating treatment, healthcare providers should inquire about the presence of any of these conditions in elderly patients, as they may necessitate closer monitoring or consideration of alternative therapies. The potential for adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding, underscores the importance of individualized assessment and management in this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. The use of aspirin during the last trimester of pregnancy is particularly cautioned against, as it may lead to adverse effects on fetal development and complications during delivery. Therefore, it is essential that pregnant patients only use aspirin under the guidance of a physician, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. It is particularly important to avoid the use of aspirin during the last three months of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. There is no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when considering the use of this medication while breastfeeding.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they have conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, or kidney disease. It is essential to assess renal function and consider potential dosing adjustments or monitoring requirements based on the severity of renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they have conditions such as liver cirrhosis. It is essential for these patients to receive appropriate evaluation and monitoring of their liver function to ensure safe use of the medication. Adjustments to dosage may be necessary based on the severity of hepatic impairment, and ongoing assessment of liver function is recommended throughout the treatment period.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance. Healthcare professionals are advised to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on managing the situation effectively.

Prompt intervention is crucial, as the symptoms of an overdose can vary significantly depending on the substance involved. Therefore, a thorough assessment and appropriate management strategies should be implemented as soon as possible to mitigate potential risks to the patient’s health.

Nonclinical Toxicology

It is especially important not to use aspirin during the last three months of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional, as it may lead to complications for the unborn child or during delivery. No relevant information regarding non-teratogenic effects is provided in the insert. Additionally, there is no relevant information available concerning nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs. These include allergic reactions such as hives, facial swelling, shock, and asthma (wheezing). Additionally, cases of stomach bleeding have been noted, particularly in patients who are older, have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, or are concurrently using other NSAIDs or blood thinners. Symptoms indicative of stomach bleeding may encompass feeling faint, the presence of bloody or black stools, vomiting blood, and persistent stomach pain. Furthermore, new symptoms may arise that could suggest a serious condition. It is advised that medical assistance be sought immediately if any of these symptoms occur.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 in the event of an overdose. It is important for patients to understand the seriousness of an overdose and the necessity of prompt action to ensure their safety.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available upon request. It is essential to store the product at a temperature range of 15-30ºC (59-86ºF) to maintain its efficacy and stability. Proper container requirements must be adhered to, ensuring that the product is kept in a suitable environment. Special handling needs should be observed to prevent exposure to conditions outside the recommended temperature range.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. It is particularly crucial to avoid aspirin during the last trimester of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a physician, as it may pose risks to the unborn child or lead to complications during delivery. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experiences.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Aspirin, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)