aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, Bayer, Ecotrin, and others)

  • Pharmacy Author:
    Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

    Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

  • Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD
    Jay W. Marks, MD

    Jay W. Marks, MD

    Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

Is acetylsalicylic acid safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Aspirin is generally avoided during pregnancy because it may adversely effect the fetus. However, low aspirin doses have been safely used for the prevention of complications of pregnancy.

Aspirin is excreted into breast milk and may cause adverse effects in the infant.

What else should I know about acetylsalicylic acid?

What preparations of acetylsalicylic acid are available?

Chewable tablets: 81mg; caplets and tablets: 325mg, 500mg; enteric coated (safety coated) caplets and tablets: 325mg, 500mg.

How should I keep acetylsalicylic acid stored?

Aspirin should be stored at room temperature, 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), in a sealed container, avoiding moisture.

Reference: FDA Drug Information

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 7/30/2015

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