When should I not use this medicine?
Do not take Aspirin if you have:
- A history of allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, severe rash, swollen eyes) to Aspirin or other painkillers called NSAIDs, such as diclofenac, mefenamic acid, ibuprofen, naproxen and related medicines
- Stomach ulcers, especially if you have ever bled from a stomach ulcer
- Bleeding disorders, for example, haemophilia
Do not breastfeed while being treated with Aspirin.
Do not give Aspirin to children younger than 12 years old without first checking with the doctor.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant. Aspirin may not be suitable for you especially if you are in the last few months of pregnancy.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have
- Asthma or other allergic conditions
- Kidney or liver disease
- High blood pressure that is not well-controlled
- Gout
If you are going for an operation, including minor operations and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Aspirin.
What side effects could I experience?
Stomach discomfort, nausea and indigestion are common side effects of Aspirin. Take Aspirin with or immediately after food to minimise these side effects. Let your doctor know if these side effects bother you or if they do not go away.
Aspirin may cause dizziness. If you feel dizzy, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert. Let your doctor know if the dizziness persists.
Less commonly, Aspirin may cause some side effects which can be serious. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of these:
- Swelling of face, eyes or lips
- Rashes
- Breathlessness
- Ringing in the ears
- Unusual bleeding, especially excessive bleeding or bleeding that takes a long time to stop
- Unusual bruises, especially if the bruises appear by themselves or if they cover a large area
- Black, sticky stools