ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID (ASPIRIN) Jan 2010

Question 1

TYPE:

Answer 1

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug [S2]

Question 2

PRESENTATION:

Answer 2

Tablet 300 mg

Question 3

ACTIONS:

Answer 3

1. Inhibits platelet function (up to 7 days).
2. Suppresses inflammation, reduces fever, relieves pain.
   Rapidly absorbed from the stomach and small bowel.

Question 4

USE:

Answer 4

Suspected Myocardial Ischaemia - reducing platelet aggregation
and limiting clot development.

Question 5

ADVERSE EFFECTS:

Answer 5

Allergic reactions e.g. asthma, angioneurotic oedema,
urticaria, rhinitis, shock. CHECK FOR PREVIOUS REACTIONS
Aggravation of bleeding tendencies.
Gastric irritation (unlikely with 1 tablet only).

Question 6

CONTRA-INDICATIONS:

Answer 6

Known or suspected allergy to Salicylates
Known or suspected active bleeding
Known bleeding tendency
Chest pain associated with psychostimulant OD (due to an increased risk of cerebral haemorrhage)

Question 7

DOSE:

Answer 7

1 tablet (300 mg)
chewed and swallowed, or dissolved in a small amount of water.
½ tablet (150 mg) if on Warfarin
Single dose only

Question 8

SPECIAL NOTE:

Answer 8

Administer even when patient is on slow release Aspirin.