aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)

Question 1

aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)
Class

Answer 1

anti-platelet, NSAID

Question 2

aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)
Pharmacology and action

Answer 2

Prevents thromboxane A2 formation (thromboxane A2 causes platelets to
aggregate and form plugs). Has antipyretic and analgesic properties

Question 3

aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)
ONSET, DURATION, PEAK EFFECT

Answer 3

Onset: 15-30 minutes Duration: 4-6 hours Peak Effect: 1-2 hours

Question 4

aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)
Indications and Contraindications

Answer 4

Indications
● New-onset chest discomfort suggestive of ACS

Contraindications
● Hypersensitivity to NSAIDs
● ASA-intolerant asthma
● Bleeding disorders
● Hemolytic anemia
● Lactating mothers
● Hemorrhagic stroke
● Active bleeding (relative)

Question 5

aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)
Adverse reactions and side effects

Answer 5

Respiratory: Bronchospasm/wheezing in allergic patients
Gastrointestinal: GI bleeding, epigastric distress, heartburn
Other: Anaphylaxis, Reye syndrome

Question 6

aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)
Dosage

Answer 6

Adult: 162-325mg PO

Question 7

aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)
special considerations

Answer 7

N/A

Question 8

aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA)
drug interactions

Answer 8

● Increased risk of bleeding with concurrent anticoagulant/NSAID use.
● Diminishes effects of ACE inhibitors and loop diuretics.
● Decreased effectiveness and absorption with antacids and corticosteroids.
● Increased risk of hypoglycemia when administered with oral hypoglycemic drugs.