Aspirin (ASA)

Question 1

Classification

Answer 1

Antiplatelet, nonnarcotic analgesic, antipyretic

Question 2

Action

Answer 2

Prevents the formation of a chemical known as thromboxane A2, that cause obstruction or constriction of small coronary arteries

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

Fever, inflammation, angina, acute MI, and patients complaining of pain, pressure, squeezing, or crushing in the chest that may be cardiac in origin

Question 4

Adverse effects

Answer 4

Anaphylaxis, angioedema, bronchospasm, bleeding, stomach irritation, nausea/vomiting

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

GI bleeding, active ulcer disease, hemorrhagic stroke, bleeding disorders, chinldren with chickenpox or flu like symptoms, known sensitivity.

Question 6

Adult dosage (myocardial infarction)

Answer 6

160 to 325 mg PO (alternatively, four 81-mg baby aspirin are given), 300 mg rectal suppository

Question 7

Pediatric dosage (myocardial infarction)

Answer 7

3 to 5 mg/kg/day - 5 to 10 mg/kg/day given in a single dose

Question 8

Adult dosage (pain/fever)

Answer 8

325 to 625 mg PO ( 1 to 2 adult tablets) every 4 to 6 hrs

Question 9

Pediatric dosage (pain/fever)

Answer 9

60 to 90 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 4 to 6 hrs

Question 10

Special considerations

Answer 10

Pregnancy class C except the last 3 months of pregnancy, when aspirin is considered pregnancy class D