ASPIRIN

Question 1

ASPIRIN: CLASS?

Answer 1

Antiplatelet drug

Question 2

ASPIRIN: INDICATIONS?

2 treatments, 3 preventions

Answer 2

For treatment of:
→ Acute coronary syndrome (ACS)
→ Acute ischaemic stroke

For long-term secondary prevention of thrombotic arterial events in patients with:
→ Cardiovascular disease
→ Cerebrovascular disease
→ Peripheral arterial disease

Question 3

ASPIRIN: ADMINISTRATION?

Answer 3

Orally

After food to minimise gastric irritation

Question 4

ASPIRIN: ADVERSE EFFECTS?

Answer 4

→ Gastrointestinal irritation
→ Peptic ulceration and haemorrhage
→ Bronchospasm
→ Tinnitus

note: overdose of aspirin is LIFE-THREATENING

Question 5

Gastrointestinal irritation can be an adverse effect of aspirin. What can be additionally given to patients with higher risks of gastro problems when taking a low dose of aspirin?

Answer 5

Gastroprotection such as Omeprazole

Question 6

ASPIRIN: INTERACTIONS?

Answer 6

Aspirin can be taken with other antiplatelet drugs but in some situations (acute coronary syndrome), CAUTION is required due to an increased risk of bleeding

Therefore, caution required with:
→ antiplatelet drugs (e.g.- clopidogrel)
→ anticoagulants (e.g.- heparin, warfarin)

Question 7

ASPIRIN: CONTRAINDICATIONS?

note: cautions and avoid

Answer 7

CAUTION individuals with:
→ peptic ulcerations
→ gout

AVOID in these individuals:
→ < 16 years old
→ aspirin hypersensitivity
→ third trimester of pregnancy

Question 8

Aspirin should not be given to those under the age of 16 years old. Explain why.

Answer 8

Risk of Reye’s syndrome (affects liver and brain) which is life-threatening

Question 9

What is meant by aspirin hypersensitivity?

Answer 9

individuals who have had bronchospasms or other allergic reaction due to aspirin or other NSAIDs

Question 10

Some patients can experience peptic ulcerations due to aspirin usage. What can be done as a precaution for these patients?

Answer 10

use of gastroprotection alongside the aspirin

Question 11

ASPIRIN: MOA

Answer 11

1. Aspirin irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX)
2. This reduces production of pro-aggregatory factor thromboxane from arachidonic acid
3. This reduces platelet aggregation and therefore reduces the risk of arterial occlusion (blockage).

Question 12

ASPIRIN: PATIENT EDUCATION/ COMMUNICATION

Answer 12

advise patients that low dose aspirin is used to prevent heart attacks/strokes and prolong life.

Warn patients to look out for indigestion or bleeding symptoms and report these to doctor if they occur.

Question 13

ASPIRIN: MONITORING

Answer 13

Enquire about any side effects