The A in the ABCS Appropriate Use of Aspirin

Contents  What is aspirin  Who should take it  Side effects and risks  Who should NOT take it  How to talk to your doctor

What is aspirin?  Chemical name is acetylsalicylic acid (abbreviated ASA)  First made from willow tree bark in the 1800s  Many effects including pain relief (analgesic), fever reduction (antipyretic), blood thinning (antiplatelet), and reduction of inflammation  IN SOME PEOPLE, ASPIRIN IS PRESCRIBED BY THEIR DOCTOR BECAUSE IT IS A TYPE OF BLOOD THINNER THAT CAN PREVENT HEART ATTACKS AND STROKES

WHO SHOULD TAKE LOW DOSE ASPIRIN? ♥Aspirin is usually prescribed for people who have a past history of heart problems or stroke, including a history of angina (chest pain), heart attack, stents or heart surgery ♥Aspirin may help prevent heart attacks and strokes in other people who have risk factors( like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes) BUT your doctor needs to help you decide, since aspirin can have serious side effects in some people

Side effects and risks  The most serious risk is bleeding from the digestive (gastrointestinal) tract, especially the stomach and small intestine, which can be fatal  Aspirin can be very dangerous or potentially lethal when taken in very large doses  Certain other drugs and supplements can interact with aspirin and cause problems, so always tell your doctor about everything you are taking including over-the- counter and herbal preparations.

Who might NOT want to take aspirin  You may not be a candidate for taking aspirin if you have…  Allergy to aspirin or allergy to ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naproxen (Aleve)  Peptic ulcers or stomach problems, or bleeding from the stomach or bowels  Bleeding disorder such as hemophilia  Gout  Severe kidney disease  Liver impairment

How to talk to your doctor  Do not be afraid of bringing up the topic of aspirin use  Be familiar with your medical history or have records sent to the doctor before you meet  Know your family medical history, especially with regards to heart attacks and strokes  Make sure to have the doctor explain the possible risks and benefits of aspirin to you so that you can make a smart choice  Ask about how much you should be taking