Prototype Drug Unit 5 & 7- Aspirin (acetylsalicylic Acid)

Question 1

Therapeutic classification

Answer 1

Nonnarcotic analgesic, antipyretic (antifever), antiplatelet (blood thinner)

Question 2

Pharmacologic classification

Answer 2

Salicylate, NSAID

Question 3

Therapeutic effects

Answer 3

Used to reduce pain and inflammation and fever. First-line treatment for stroke prophylaxis in patients with a history of transient ischemic attacks or who have persistent or paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

Question 4

Mechanism of action

Answer 4

The suppression of prostaglandin synthesis in or near the hypothalamus results in the lowering of body temp. (Reduces prostaglandin synthesis)

Question 5

Adverse effects

Answer 5

Hypersensitivity leads to bronchospasm, laryngeal edema, and anaphylaxis. Aspirin can also cause GI issues (stomach irritation, heartburn, nausea vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain).

Question 6

Contraindications/precautions

Answer 6

Contraindications: hypersensitivity, people with arthritis, bronchospasm, agranulocytosis, head trauma, increased cranial pressure, GI bleeding, hypoprothrombinemia, vitamin K deficiency, heart failure, pregnancy, or lactation

Question 7

Drug interactions

Answer 7

Can interact with other salicylates, and acetaminophen can cause nephrotoxicity (kill your kidneys)

Question 8

Herbal/food interactions

Answer 8

Feverfew, garlic, ginger, horse chestnut, and red clover increase bleeding risk.
Caffeine will increase the rate of aspirin absorption.
St. John’s wort increases sedation

Question 9

Treatment of overdose

Answer 9

Make them vomit, pump the stomach, or alkaline the urine. Hemodialysis might be needed in severe cases