Aspirin

Question 1

What is the presentation of Aspirin?

Answer 1

300mg chewable tablets.

Question 2

Outline the pharmacological effects of aspirin, and the actions.

Answer 2

Analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-platelet aggregator.
Actions:
1. Minimise platelet aggregation and thrombus formation in order to retard the progression of coronary artery thrombosis in ACS.
2. Inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins.

Question 3

How is Aspirin metabolised and excreted?

Answer 3

Converted to salicylate in the gut mucosa and liver.

Excreted mainly by the kidneys.

Question 4

List the PEI for Aspirin.

Answer 4

ACS

Question 5

List the contraindications for Aspirin.

Answer 5

1. Hypersensitivity to aspirin/salicylates
2. Actively bleeding peptic ulcers
3. Bleeding disorders
4. Suspected dissecting aortic aneurysm
5. Chest pain associated with psychostimulant OD if SBP >160mmHg.

Question 6

List the precautions for Aspirin.

Answer 6

1. Peptic ulcer
2. Asthma
3. Pts on anticoagulants

Question 7

List the side effects of Aspirin.

Answer 7

1. Heartburn
2. Nausea
3. GI bleeding
4. Increased bleeding times
5. Hypersensitivity rxns

Question 8

What are the special notes about Aspirin?

Answer 8

1. C/I for use in febrile illness in children and adolescents
2. Antiplatelet effects of aspirin persist for the natural life of the platelets (8-10 days).