Aspirin – Versatile NSAID with antiplatelet and cardioprotective properties.
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What is Aspirin?
Aspirin is a uniquely versatile medication that serves dual purposes as both a pain reliever and a life-saving cardiovascular protector. Its antiplatelet effects make it essential for preventing heart attacks and strokes in high-risk patients, while its anti-inflammatory properties provide effective pain relief.
Book an online consultation if you need cardiovascular risk assessment, have had a heart attack or stroke, need pain management advice, or want to discuss whether low-dose aspirin is appropriate for your heart health. Our GPs can evaluate your cardiovascular risk factors and determine if aspirin therapy is suitable for your specific situation.
What is Aspirin used for?
- Cardiovascular protection (secondary prevention)
- Prevention of heart attacks and strokes
- Mild to moderate pain relief
- Inflammation and fever reduction
- Post-heart attack or stroke prevention
- Unstable angina treatment
- Prevention of blood clots
How does Aspirin work?
Irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production (providing anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects) and permanently blocking platelet aggregation (providing antiplatelet effects for cardiovascular protection).
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Cardioprotection: 75mg once daily. Pain relief: 300-600mg every 4-6 hours (maximum 4g daily). Take with or after food.
Children
Not recommended under 16 years due to Reye's syndrome risk. Use paracetamol or ibuprofen instead.
Important Notes
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach irritation.
- Dispersible tablets should be dissolved in water.
- Low-dose (75mg) for heart protection, higher doses for pain relief.
- Enteric-coated formulations available to reduce stomach irritation.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Stomach upset and nausea
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Increased bleeding tendency
- Stomach ulcers
- Tinnitus (ringing in ears)
- Easy bruising
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Stomach or duodenal ulcers
- Severe allergic reactions
- Asthma attacks (in susceptible individuals)
- Reye's syndrome (in children)
- Increased bleeding risk with surgery
Important Warnings
- Not suitable for children under 16 years due to Reye's syndrome risk.
- Tell your GP if you have asthma, stomach ulcers, or bleeding disorders.
- Increases bleeding risk—inform doctors/dentists before procedures.
- Stop 7 days before planned surgery unless specifically advised otherwise.
- Use with caution in elderly patients (increased bleeding risk).
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants—significantly increased bleeding risk.
- Methotrexate—increased toxicity risk.
- ACE inhibitors—may reduce their effectiveness.
- Ibuprofen—may interfere with aspirin's cardioprotective effects.
- Corticosteroids—increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between aspirin for pain and aspirin for heart protection?
Low-dose aspirin (75mg daily) is used for heart protection, while higher doses (300-600mg) are used for pain relief. The low dose provides antiplatelet effects with minimal side effects.
Can I take aspirin if I have asthma?
Some people with asthma are aspirin-sensitive and may experience severe asthma attacks. Always check with your GP first if you have asthma.
Why can't children take aspirin?
Aspirin in children under 16 is linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition affecting the brain and liver. Use paracetamol or ibuprofen instead.
Should I stop aspirin before surgery or dental work?
Usually yes, as it increases bleeding risk. However, for some cardiac patients, the benefits may outweigh risks. Always discuss with your healthcare provider.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14