Aspirin Extra Strength (Acetylsalicylic acid - non Rx)

Indications

Aspirin Extra Strength is an over-the-counter medication that can be used to relieve pain and reduce fever. It contains a higher dosage of aspirin than regular strength Acetylsalicylic acid, typically 500mg per tablet.

Aspirin works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, fever, and pain. By inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, aspirin can reduce pain associated with a variety of conditions, such as headache, toothache, muscle pain, menstrual pain, and backache.

Use and Dosage

Aspirin Extra Strength is available in tablet form and taken orally with a full glass of water, unless a doctor instructs otherwise. To avoid stomach upset, do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking the drug. If stomach upset occurs, taking it with food or milk may help.

The dosage and length of treatment depend on the patient's medical condition and response to the treatment. Patients should always consult the product label for guidance on how many tablets to take within a 24-hour period and for how long they may self-treat before seeking medical advice. Do not take more medication or take it for longer than the recommended duration unless directed by a doctor.

If taking aspirin to self-treat headache, patients should seek medical attention if experiencing trouble speaking, weakness on one side of the body, or sudden vision changes. Consult a doctor or pharmacist if headaches are caused by head injury, coughing, or bending, or if a headache with vomiting is severe or does not resolve, or if they also have fever and stiff neck.

Lastly, patients should not use this drug to self-treat a fever for longer than three days or pain for longer than ten days. If experiencing ringing in the ears or difficulty hearing, patients should tell their doctor promptly.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Aspirin Extra Strength (Acetylsalicylic acid - non-Rx):

• Bleeding or bruising more easily than normal
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Indigestion and stomach aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Serious Side Effects of Aspirin Extra Strength (Acetylsalicylic acid - non-Rx):

• Acid or sour stomach
• Allergic reactions such as: trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, throat, lips, and tongue.
• Anxiety
• Belching
• Bronchospasm
• Central nervous system (CNS) alteration
• Dark urine
• Difficulty hearing
• Easy bruising/bleeding
• Gastrointestinal (GI) pain, ulceration, bleeding
• Hearing loss
• Hives
• Hyperventilation
• Irritability
• Kidney damage
• Liver damage
• Platelet aggregation inhibition
• Premature hemolysis
• Pulmonary edema (salicylate-induced, non-cardiogenic)
• Rash
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Shaking
• Signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine)
• Skin problems
• Skin swelling
• Stomach discomfort, upset, or pain
• Trouble sleeping
• Unexplained tiredness
• Unusual drowsiness, dullness, tiredness, weakness, or feeling of sluggishness
• Yellowing eyes/skin.

Forms and Strength

Aspirin Extra Strength (Acetylsalicylic acid - non-Rx) is available in the following forms and strength:

Aspirin Extra Strength: Tablet

• 500 mg

Cautions

• Acetylsalicylic acid can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders.
• Aspirin can interact with other medications, such as blood thinners and certain antibiotics.
• Acetylsalicylic acid should not be taken by children under the age of 12, unless directed by a healthcare professional, due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
• Aspirin can cause allergic reactions in some people.
• Follow the dosing instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended daily dose, as Acetylsalicylic acid can lead to serious health complications.
• Aspirin should be used with caution in people with liver or kidney disease, as it can affect the function of these organs.
• Acetylsalicylic acid can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in people who are elderly or have a history of gastrointestinal problems.
• Aspirin can also increase the risk of certain health problems, such as stroke and heart attack, particularly in individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease.
• Long-term use of Acetylsalicylic acid can lead to tinnitus or hearing loss.
• Aspirin should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much aspirin is in extra strength?

Extra strength aspirin typically contains 500mg of aspirin per tablet.

When is the best time to take aspirin?

Take low-dose aspirin once a day. Do not take it on an empty stomach. It's best to take it with or just after food. This will make it less likely to upset your stomach.

How many extra strength aspirin can you take a day?

Do not take more than 12 tablets in 24 hours. Wait at least 4 hours between doses.

How long can you take extra strength aspirin?

You should not take this medication for self-treatment of pain for longer than 10 days. You should not use this drug to self-treat a fever that lasts longer than 3 days.

Resources

• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=16d774cc-4247-4bf8-9b5a-c338ffebda3d
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5093/aspirin-extra-strength-oral/details
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=efc7d42a-241a-422d-bc08-be2f5f774b62
• https://www.aspirin.com/
• https://www.drugs.com/sfx/bayer-aspirin-extra-strength-plus-side-effects.html#serious-side-effects