Aspirin is a popular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID and analgesic pain reliever. It is non-narcotic and most frequently used to treat mild to moderate pain, especially headache, toothache and menstrual pain. It is also effective as an antipyretic to reduce fever when treating colds and flu.
Aspirin is often recommended for the treatment of platelets in patients who have suffered heart attack or as an antiangina treatment for people who have had bypass surgery. It is sometimes used to counter platelet aggregation, but since treatment using aspirin may promote bleeding it must not be used by people who are also using anticoagulants.
Aspirin, like all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acts against the release of prostaglandins; chemicals that contribute to inflammation. How NSAIDs manage to control fever and reduce pain is still largely unknown.
Aspirin should not be taken during the last three months of pregnancy unless it has been specifically prescribed by your doctor.
Common brand names
Common side effects
Aspirin passes into the breastmilk and should not be used by mothers who are breastfeeding.
There is a link between the use of aspirin and Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition that effects children and causes inflammation of the brain and liver. Although exceptions may be made with specialist medical advice in the treatment of juvenile arthritis, or Still's disease, aspirin is generally not given to children under twelve.
Foods containing large amounts of caffeine may increase the pain-relieving effects of the drug.
Consuming alcohol in conjunction with aspirin may increase the likelihood and severity of stomach upset and bleeding.
Consult your doctor before taking aspirin if you have a history of any of the following:
Consult your doctor before taking aspirin if you are taking any of the following drugs, medications or supplements:
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