Aspirin is a commonly sold over-the-counter medication that relieves pain and fever. It is also commonly used as an anti-inflammatory or a blood thinner.
Individuals can purchase aspirin without a prescription. Everyday applications include headache relief, swelling reduction and fever reduction.
Taken daily, in people at high risk, aspirin can reduce the risk of cardiovascular attacks, such as a heart attack or a stroke. This is because of the action of aspirin as a blood thinner preventing the formation of blood clots within the blood vessels.
WHY DO PEOPLE USE ASPIRIN?
Aspirin is used in conditions such as muscle aches, toothaches, common cold and headaches to minimize fever and alleviate mild to moderate pain. In conditions like arthritis, it can also be used to decrease pain and swelling.
Aspirin is a salicylate and belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs {NSAID}. Aspirin is generally not used in children less than 12 years because of a specific life threatening complication known as Reye syndrome.
SIFE EFFECT OF ASPIRIN
Aspirin allergy is relatively common and this can present with symptoms such as hives, difficult breathing, swelling of the ears, mouth, tongue, or throat, cough, wheezing and so on.
Other possible side effect especially with prolonged usage or a very high dose include confusion, hallucinations, heavy breathing, seizures {convulsions} , ringing in the ears, extreme stomach pain, vomiting or nausea, bloody stool or vomitus.
If you notice any of the symptoms or side effects above on commencement of aspirin, inform your doctor immediately.
Photo credit:
Healthline.com
Pharm. Fatima Ajide J. is a current pharmacology student at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
She has a passion in researching about the interaction between organs and drugs (i. e. the Pharmacodynamic and Pharmacokinetics).
A practicing Muslim and hobbies are tourism, reading and Research.
