Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: ASPIRIN CHEWABLE - ORAL (ASP-er-in)

BRAND NAME(S): Children's Aspirin, St Joseph's Aspirin Children

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Children and teenagers should not use aspirin, aspirin- containing or aspirin-related medications for flu symptoms or chickenpox without first consulting a doctor. A rare but serious illness known as Reye's syndrome may occur.

USES: Aspirin is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, reduce fever, and to reduce the pain and swelling in conditions such as arthritis. In low doses, it is used as a "blood thinner" to prevent blood clots, and to reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

HOW TO USE: Chew thoroughly before swallowing. Use only as directed. May take with food or after meals to prevent stomach upset. You should take this drug with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water to help swallow the medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset is the most common side effect. If this effect persists or worsens, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: heartburn, loss of appetite, dizziness, difficulty hearing, ringing in the ears, easy bruising or bleeding, black/bloody stools. Very unlikely but report: yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Take aspirin only on the advice of a doctor if you have certain medical conditions including: any allergies - especially aspirin/NSAID allergy (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib), blood disorders, bleeding problems, ulcers, asthma, kidney disease, liver disease, gout, nasal polyps. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin if they have chickenpox, influenza or any undiagnosed illness without first consulting a doctor about Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. If you have had oral surgery or your tonsils removed in the last seven days, do not use chewable aspirin tablets, effervescent aspirin or aspirin in crushed tablets or gargles. Aspirin that has a strong vinegar-like odor is too old and should not be used. Aspirin is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before taking aspirin. Aspirin is excreted into breast milk. Though to date there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.