Acetylsalicylic acid

Acetylsalicylic acid, also known by the trade name aspirin, is a medication that belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This medication is widely used to treat pain, antipyretic and inflammation.

The main characteristics of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) include:

1. Analgesic Action: Aspirin helps reduce pain including headache, toothache, muscle pain, and back pain.
2. Antipyretic action: It can also be used to reduce high fever in fever.
3. Anti-inflammatory action: Aspirin has properties that help reduce inflammation in the body and can be prescribed for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
4. Prevention of thrombosis: Acetylsalicylic acid is also used in low doses as a prophylactic agent against thrombosis and myocardial infarction, as it can thin the blood and prevent the formation of clots.

It should be taken into account that aspirin may have side effects and contraindications, so its use should be coordinated with a doctor, especially in case of long-term or regular use. It is also important to follow the dosage recommendations indicated on the package or prescribed by a doctor.

Indications Acetylsalicylic acid

Acetylsalicylic acid has a variety of indications for use. Here are some of the major medical conditions and situations for which aspirin may be recommended:

1. Pain and antipyretic: Aspirin is used to relieve pain of various origins such as headache, toothache, muscle pain and pain from joint diseases. It is also used to reduce fever in high fever.
2. Prevention of cardiovascular disease: Low-dose aspirin can be used to prevent myocardial infarction and stroke in patients at high risk of cardiovascular disease.
3. Prevention of thrombosis: Aspirin may be used to prevent the formation of blood clots (blood clots) and to prevent ischemic complications.
4. Rheumatic diseases: Aspirin is sometimes used to treat rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Migraine: In some cases, aspirin may help in reducing the intensity and duration of migraine headaches.
6. Gastrointestinal Diseases: Aspirin may be used to reduce the risk of polyps and colon cancer.
7. Skin conditions: Aspirin may be used topically as an ointment or solution to treat insect bites, sunburns, and other skin problems.

Release form

Acetylsalicylic acid is available in various dosage forms for ease of administration and use. The most common forms of acetylsalicylic acid include:

1. Tablets: This is the most common form of acetylsalicylic acid. It is available as regular tablets, chewable tablets, dispersible tablets, and other varieties.
2. Capsules: Acetylsalicylic acid may also be available as capsules that contain a metered dose powder.
3. Powder: Acetylsalicylic acid is sometimes available as a powder that can be diluted in water or other liquid remedy before taking.
4. Liquid: Aspirin may be presented in liquid form, such as as a syrup or solution.
5. Topical preparations: Acetylsalicylic acid can also be used in ointments, gels and creams for topical application to the skin.

Pharmacodynamics

Acetylsalicylic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and analgesic that has the following pharmacodynamics:

1. Anti-inflammatory action: Aspirin reduces inflammation by blocking the action of cyclooxygenase (COX), an enzyme that is involved in the formation of prostaglandins, substances that promote inflammation. This results in a reduced inflammatory response and less pain.
2. Analgesic action: Aspirin has an analgesic effect, reducing pain associated with inflammation and tissue irritation.
3. Antiplatelet action: Aspirin affects the aggregation of platelets (blood clots), reducing their ability to stick together and form blood clots. This effect of aspirin is used to prevent thromboembolic events such as heart attacks and strokes.
4. Reducing fever: Aspirin may help reduce fever because it affects the temperature regulation centers in the hypothalamus of the brain.
5. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in high doses: In high doses aspirin may have more pronounced anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Acetylsalicylic acid is a drug that is widely used as an analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory agent. Here are the main aspects of acetylsalicylic acid pharmacokinetics:

1. Absorption: Acetylsalicylic acid is normally absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Absorption occurs mainly in the stomach and upper portions of the small intestine. The drug may be absorbed more rapidly if taken on an empty stomach.
2. Distribution: Acetylsalicylic acid has the ability to penetrate cell membranes, and it can be found in various tissues and body fluids. The drug also penetrates through the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
3. Metabolism: Acetylsalicylic acid is metabolized in the liver, where it undergoes hydrolysis, being converted into salicylic acid. This process occurs with the involvement of the enzyme acetylase. Salicylic acid is then metabolized and excreted in the urine.
4. Excretion: Excretion of acetylsalicylic acid and its metabolites occurs mainly through the kidneys. The drug is excreted as salicylurea and glucuronides through urine.
5. Half-life: The half-life of acetylsalicylic acid is usually about 15-20 minutes, but the duration of action may be longer because metabolites (salicylic acid) also exert pharmacologic effects.

The pharmacokinetics of acetylsalicylic acid may be altered depending on various factors such as dosage, route of administration (e.g., in tablet or powder form), food, renal and hepatic status.

Dosing and administration

Acetylsalicylic acid is used depending on the medical indication such as pain relief, antipyretic or anti-inflammatory, and according to the patient's age, weight and health status. Here are general recommendations for the method of administration and dosage of acetylsalicylic acid:

1. For pain relief and antipyretic:

   • For adults, it is generally recommended to take 325 mg (one tablet) up to 4 times daily as needed.
   • For children, the dosage depends on age and weight. The doctor can prescribe a dose according to individual needs.

2. Anti-inflammatory treatment:

   • For adults, the dose may range from 500 mg to 1,000 mg every 4 to 6 hours, but no more than 4,000 mg per day.
   • For children, the dosage is determined by a doctor depending on medical indications.

3. Prevention of cardiovascular disease:

   • The dosage for prophylaxis can range from 75 mg to 325 mg per day, depending on your doctor's recommendations.

4. Prevention of thromboembolic events:

   • The dosage may vary depending on the clinical situation and medical recommendations. Most often doses from 75 mg to 325 mg per day are used.

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and the instructions on the drug package. Do not exceed the recommended dosage without consulting a medical professional, as acetylsalicylic acid may have side effects and may interact with other medicines. Also, consider your individual health and condition when taking acetylsalicylic acid. If you experience any unusual symptoms or complications, consult your doctor.

Use Acetylsalicylic acid during pregnancy

The use of acetylsalicylic acid during pregnancy requires caution and should be done under a doctor's supervision. Your doctor may decide to prescribe aspirin in the following cases:

1. Prevention of pre-eclampsia and high blood pressure: In some cases, aspirin may be recommended for pregnant women at increased risk of developing pre-eclampsia (gestosis) or high blood pressure. It is usually only recommended if certain risk factors are present and under a doctor's supervision.
2. Prevention of thrombosis: In women at high risk of thrombosis or predisposed to thrombophilia, aspirin may be used in therapeutic doses to prevent thrombosis, especially in the second and third trimesters.
3. Migraineprophylaxis: In rare cases, aspirin may be recommended for pregnant women with migraine, provided that the benefits to the mother outweigh the potential risks to the baby.

However, it is important to note that aspirin in therapeutic doses may have potential risks for bleeding in both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, the decision to use aspirin during pregnancy should be carefully considered and this should be agreed with a physician who will assess the potential benefits and risks in the specific situation.

Contraindications

Acetylsalicylic acid has a number of contraindications and its use should be limited or avoided altogether in some cases. Contraindications include:

1. Gastric and duodenal ulcers: Aspirin can aggravate ulcers and cause bleeding in the digestive tract.
2. Allergy or hypersensitivity to acetylsalicylic acid or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): People who are allergic to aspirin or NSAIDs may develop serious allergic reactions.
3. Asthma: Aspirin can cause asthma symptoms to worsen and even lead to an asthma attack in some people with asthma.
4. Blood clotting disorders: Aspirin inhibits blood clotting, therefore it should not be taken in the presence of clotting disorders, hemorrhagic disorders or taking anticoagulants.
5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: In some cases aspirin may be undesirable during pregnancy and breastfeeding, especially with prolonged use.
6. Liver and kidney failure: In patients with impaired liver or kidney function, aspirin may accumulate in the body and cause toxicity.
7. Children and adolescents with a viral infection: Aspirin is not recommended for children and adolescents with a viral infection (such as influenza or chickenpox) because it may increase the risk of developing Reye's syndrome, which is a serious complication.
8. Having undergone surgery: Aspirin may increase the risk of bleeding after surgery, so its use may be temporarily suspended before surgery.

Side effects Acetylsalicylic acid

Acetylsalicylic acid can cause a variety of side effects. It is important to note that not all people experience these effects, and their severity may vary. Below are some of the possible side effects of aspirin:

1. Dyspeptic symptoms: Include dyspepsia (stomach pain, discomfort, heartburn), nausea and vomiting. Aspirin can irritate the gastric mucosa and lead to gastritis.
2. Gastric and intestinal ulcers: Prolonged use of aspirin may increase the risk of stomach and intestinal ulcers and bleeding.
3. Bleeding: Aspirin has an anticoagulant effect, which may increase the tendency of blood to clot. This may lead to minor or serious bleeding, including bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract.
4. Allergic reactions: Some people may develop allergic reactions to aspirin, including hives, itching, swelling, asthmatic symptoms, and even anaphylactic shock (in rare cases).
5. Decreased kidney function: Long-term use of aspirin may affect kidney function and lead to kidney problems.
6. Decreased liver function: Rarely, but aspirin can cause liver damage.
7. Symptoms from the middle nervous system: Dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and other symptoms related to the central nervous system may occur.
8. Skin reactions: May include rash, itching, and skin rashes.
9. Decreased platelet count: Aspirin may decrease the number of platelets in the blood, which may increase the risk of bleeding.
10. Asthma symptoms: In some people, aspirin can cause an exacerbation of asthma.
11. Symptoms of overdose: If the recommended dose of aspirin is exceeded, serious symptoms may occur, including abdominal pain, vomiting, hyperthermia (increased body temperature), and others.

Overdose

Acetylsalicylic acid overdose can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. Aspirin overdose can have serious consequences and potentially fatal complications. Symptoms of aspirin overdose may include the following:

1. Abdominal pain.
2. Vomiting and nausea.
3. Increased sweating.
4. Dizziness and weakness.
5. Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
6. Slowing your breathing.
7. Anxiety, confusion, and worry.
8. High body temperature (hyperthermia).
9. Irritation of gastric mucosa and bleeding from the digestive tract.

If an aspirin overdose is suspected, you should seek medical attention or call an ambulance immediately. Treatment for an overdose usually involves medical measures to remove aspirin from the body, such as gastric lavage, taking activated charcoal, and administering medications that will help lower aspirin levels in the blood. In some cases, other medical procedures such as hemodialysis may be needed.

Preventing aspirin overdose involves strict adherence to dosage recommendations, not exceeding recommended doses, and avoiding long-term aspirin use without consulting a physician. Patients should read the directions for use carefully and consult a medical professional if there are questions or concerns about taking aspirin.

Interactions with other drugs

Acetylsalicylic acid may interact with other medications, which can affect their effectiveness or cause side effects. Below are some of the known interactions of aspirin with other drugs:

1. Anticoagulants (anti-clotting agents): Aspirin increases the effect of anticoagulants such as warfarin and heparin, increasing the risk of bleeding. When aspirin and anticoagulants are used together, it is important to carefully monitor blood clotting values.
2. Blood pressure-lowering drugs: Aspirin may weaken the effects of some antihypertensive (antihypertensive) drugs, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and diuretics. This may impair blood pressure control.
3. Diabetes medications: Aspirin may increase blood sugar levels and worsen diabetes control in some patients. Patients with diabetes should discuss taking aspirin with their doctor.
4. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): Co-administration of aspirin with other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or diclofenac, may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding.
5. Methotrexate: Aspirin may increase methotrexate levels in the body, which may lead to toxicity. Patients taking methotrexate should carefully monitor dosage.
6. Heart Failure Medications: When aspirin is co-administered with certain heart failure medications, such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, unwanted interactions may occur.
7. Alcohol: Alcohol increases the risk of ulcers and bleeding when taking aspirin.
8. Drugs that affect thestomach: Drugs that affect the stomach, such as prokinetics or drugs that reduce the acidity of gastric juice, may affect the absorption of aspirin.
9. Diuretics: Aspirin may decrease the effectiveness of some diuretics.

Acetylsalicylic acid and alcohol

Drinking acetylsalicylic acid after drinking alcohol is not recommended without consulting a doctor, and it can be dangerous in some cases. Here are some important aspects to consider:

1. Risk of gastric problems: Like alcohol, aspirin can irritate the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines. If you have consumed alcohol and then take aspirin, it may increase your risk of stomach ulcers, gastritis, and bleeding.
2. Interaction with alcohol: Aspirin may interact with alcohol and increase its effects on the stomach and liver.
3. Risk of bleeding: As mentioned earlier, aspirin has an anticoagulant (anti-clotting) effect and may increase the risk of bleeding. Alcohol consumption may also increase this risk.
4. Asthma and allergic reactions: Aspirin can cause asthma symptoms and allergic reactions in some people. If you have asthma or allergic reactions to aspirin, taking it after alcohol can be dangerous.
5. Liver and kidney problems: If you have liver or kidney disease, taking aspirin can potentially worsen your condition.

If you have the need to take aspirin after drinking alcohol, it is important to consult your doctor before doing so to assess your individual risks and benefits of taking it. Your doctor can recommend a safe dosage and tell you how to minimize possible side effects. In general, aspirin use after alcohol should be abstained from unless there is a clear medical indication and a doctor's advice.

Paracetamol and acetylsalicylic acid

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) should be taken together with caution and only when prescribed by a doctor. These two medicines belong to different classes of analgesics (painkillers) and antipyretics, and their combined use can potentially increase the risk of side effects and effects on the body.

The main thing you should consider:

1. Dosage: Follow your doctor's recommendations or the instructions on the package for the dosage of each medication.
2. Contraindications: Always consult your doctor before using paracetamol and aspirin together, especially if you have any medical problems such as stomach ulcers, blood diseases or clotting disorders, and if you are taking other medications.
3. Side effects: Combined use of paracetamol and aspirin may increase the risk of side effects such as gastric mucosal irritation, bleeding and other adverse reactions.
4. Medical monitoring: If you take paracetamol and aspirin regularly, it is important to have medical monitoring and report any unpleasant symptoms or side effects to your doctor.
5. Important: Do not self-medicate, but always consult your doctor before taking a combination of medications to make sure they are safe and appropriate for your condition and needs.

Remember that the combined use of medications should be recommended and monitored by your doctor.

Analgin and acetylsalicylic acid

It is not recommended to take analgin (metamizole) and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) at the same time without consulting your doctor, as this may pose a risk to your health. Both of these drugs are painkillers and antipyretics, but they have different mechanisms of action and may affect the organs and systems of the body in different ways.

Combined use of analgin and aspirin may increase the risk of undesirable side effects, including potentially dangerous complications such as digestive tract damage, increased risk of bleeding and blood clotting disorders. In addition, concomitant use of these drugs may affect kidney function and other body systems.

If you need pain relief or fever relief, be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to recommend an appropriate medication or treatment regimen, taking into account your medical history and needs. It is important to follow the specialist's recommendations and not increase the dosage on your own to avoid possible dangerous consequences.

Citramone and acetylsalicylic acid

Citramone is a combination drug that usually includes acetylsalicylic acid, paracetamol, and caffeine. Interfering with the prescribed doses of these components can be dangerous and requires caution and consultation with your doctor.

When you are considering combination medications such as citramone and the concurrent use of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), it is important to consider the following:

1. Dosage: It is important to strictly follow the dosage recommendations on the package or the doctor's instructions. Exceeding the recommended doses may cause serious side effects and increase the risk of complications.
2. Acetylsalicylic acid content: Because citramone already contains acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), additional aspirin use may increase stomach and intestinal risks, especially if you have a predisposition to ulcers or other stomach problems.
3. Side effects: Each of the components of citramone can have its own side effects, and combining them may increase the likelihood of them occurring.
4. Caffeine: Citramon also contains caffeine, which can cause insomnia, nervousness, and increased heart rate.

If you have medical problems or are taking other medications, be sure to consult your doctor before starting a combination medication to make sure it is safe and appropriate for your condition. Your doctor will be able to recommend the most appropriate treatment and dosage depending on your situation.

Ibuprofen and acetylsalicylic acid

The simultaneous use of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and ibuprofen is not recommended without consulting a doctor. Both of these drugs belong to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and their combined use may increase the risk of side effects, especially on the digestive system, stomach and mucous membranes.

Possible side effects of taking aspirin and ibuprofen at the same time may include:

1. Increased digestive side effects: The combination of these two drugs may increase the risk of irritation of the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines, which can lead to ulcers or bleeding.
2. Effects on renal function: NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, may have an effect on renal function, and their concomitant use may increase this effect.
3. Increased cardiovascular risk: Aspirin may affect the blood clotting system, while ibuprofen may affect blood pressure. Together, this can increase the risk for cardiovascular problems.

If you have the need to use both aspirin and ibuprofen, it is important to consult your doctor to determine the best way to use them and minimize the risk of side effects. Your doctor will be able to recommend the most appropriate treatment and dosage depending on your condition and needs.

Storage conditions

Storage conditions for acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) may vary depending on the form of release and manufacturer, but in general the following recommendations will help to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the drug:

1. Temperature: Acetylsalicylic acid should be stored at controlled room temperature, usually 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Avoid extreme temperatures and exposure to direct sunlight.
2. Packaging: The drug should be stored in the original package or bottle with a sealing cap to prevent the ingress of moisture and air, which may affect the stability of aspisirin.
3. Humidity: Avoid storing in humid places, as high humidity may cause decomposition of the drug.
4. Child protection: Keep acetylsalicylic acid out of the reach of children to prevent accidental use.
5. Packaging and labeling: Pay attention to the expiration date (expiration date) on the package and do not use the drug after the expiration date. Also follow the storage instructions on the package.
6. Protection from moisture and air: If acetylsalicylic acid is stored as dispersible tablets or other special forms, make sure you close the jar or package carefully after each use to avoid moisture and air.

Shelf life

The expiration date of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) depends on the form of release and the manufacturer. Usually the expiration date is indicated on the packaging. On average, the shelf life of aspirin is 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.

It is important to store aspirin in a dry place at a temperature not exceeding 25°C (77°F) and protect it from moisture and direct sunlight. After the expiry date, aspirin may lose its effectiveness and be less effective or even potentially dangerous to use.

If you have aspirin and its expiration date has expired or you doubt its quality, it is better not to take it and buy a new packaged medicine. It is important to follow medication storage recommendations and keep track of expiration dates to ensure that your medication is effective and safe.