ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID (ASPIRIN)

Audience: High School Health Class By: Heather McLaughlin

Definition

Acetylsalicylic Acid or Aspirin is an acetyl derivative of salicylic acid that is a white, crystalline, weakly acidic substance, with melting point 137C.

Used For

Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) Effective in treating fever, pain, and inflammation in the body. As a group, NSAIDs are non-narcotic pain relievers

Avoid Aspirin If

You have peptic ulcer disease or poor kidney function, because it can aggravate both conditions.
You are taking blood thinning medications, because there are increased risks of bleeding.

Avoid Aspirin

For flu or chickenpox symptoms

Because of the associated risk of Reye's Syndrome a serious disease of the liver and nervous system that can lead to coma.

Caution

Aspirin can increase the effect of medicines used to treat diabetes mellitus, resulting in abnormally low blood sugars if not monitored. NSAIDs should not be used 10 14 days before surgery, Because it may interfere with blood clotting

Caution

Large doses cause acid-base imbalance and respiratory disturbances that can be fatal, especially in children. Some asthma patients have trouble breathing while taking aspirin.
Why did I take that aspirin? I knew this would happen

Pregnancy

Aspirin is generally avoided during pregnancy and in nursing mothers. Aspirin products are excreted into the breast milk.

Mommy Please dont take aspirin

Common Side Effects

Involve the gastrointestinal system and ringing in the ears. Ulcerations Pain Nausea Liver toxicity -Abdominal burning -Cramping -Gastritis -Gastrointestinal bleeding

Common Side Effects

Sometimes, stomach ulceration and bleeding can occur without any abdominal pain. Signs of Internal Bleeding: Black tarry stools -weakness dizziness upon standing

Common Side Effects

Daily Dose should be reduced if occur ringing in the ears occur kidney impairment lightheadedness - Rash - vertigo

Substitute

Acetaminophen (known by trade name Tylenol), which does not cause gastric irritation but does lower fever and relieve pain, is often substituted for Aspirin.
Sure, no prob.

Hey Ty could you cover for me?

References

http://chemicalland21.com/lifescience/phar/ACETYLSALICY LIC%20ACID.htm http://www.medicinenet.com/acetylsalicylic_acid/article.htm