Aspirin

Aspirin classification

NSAID, Anti-platelet aggregate

Aspirin Mechanism

Prevents formation of thromboxane A2, which causes platelet aggregation. Has antipyretic and analgesic properties.

Aspirin indications

New onset chest pain/discomfort, ACS

Aspirin contraindications

Hypersensitivity/allergy, patients with active bleeding (GI/brain/etc), bleeding disorders,

Relatively contraindicated in patients with asthma

Aspirin side affects

Bronchospasm, anaphylaxis, wheezing, prolonged bleeding, GI bleeding, epigastric distress, nausea, vomiting, Reye syndrome.

Aspirin interactions

Use of other blood thinners, Alcohol increases GI bleeding risk

Aspirin Adult dose

PO 160-325mg, chewing preferable to swallowing

Aspirin pediatric dose

Not recommended

Onset/duration

Onset: 5-30minutes

Peak: 1-3 hours

Duration; 3-6 hours

Aspirin considerations

Pregnancy Caution ( D ), Non-enteric-coated chewable aspirin should be administered as soon as possible with all suspected ACS patients.

Why can’t you give aspirin to children?

Giving aspirin to children or teenagers during a viral infection—such as the flu, a cold, or chickenpox—greatly increases their risk of developing Reye's syndrome.