Aspirin Tips from Pharmacists

• Take delayed-release tablets and extended-release tablets of aspirin with a full glass of water. Also, take regular aspirin tablets with a full glass of water to lower the risk of stomach upset.

• Check the labels of all over-the-counter medications for fever, pain, flu, antacids, etc. Many of these products contain aspirin along with other active ingredients. Make sure you are not taking multiple medications that contain aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid or ASA) as this can lead to an overdose.

• Combining aspirin with other NSAIDs can increase the risk of excessive bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking more than one NSAID for acute symptoms of pain and fever.

• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking aspirin. This can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

• If you are taking medications to treat high blood pressure, check your blood pressure regularly and tell your healthcare provider if the readings are consistently high.

• Call your doctor if your fever does not go away after 3 days or your pain does not improve after 10 days of taking aspirin.

• Read the directions carefully on the package of aspirin suppositories. Make sure you insert the suppository correctly into your rectum. Suppositories are for rectal use only and should not be swallowed. Aspirin suppositories may work faster than pills if used properly.