skip to main content

ES
Last Updated: 12/23/2024

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)

Drug Name(s): Bayer, Bufferin, GoodSense, generic

Class: NSAIDs

Used to provide temporary relief of headache, as well as minor arthritis and muscle pain.

Dosage

Form(s): tablet

Up to 3,000 mg orally per day in three or four doses

Special Instructions

Do not take with other prescription or over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Take at the same time every day.

Take with food or an antacid.

Do not take for more than 10 days for pain or more than 3 days for fever unless directed by a doctor.

Potential Side Effects

Abdominal cramps, pain or discomfort; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; headache; heartburn; nausea; swelling of the feet; vomiting

Be Aware

Do not take with aspirin or other products containing aspirin unless told to do so by a doctor. Confusion, deafness, dizziness or ringing in the ears is a sign that you are taking too much of this drug. If you are taking more than 3,600 mg of aspirin per day, your doctor should monitor salicylate levels in your blood. Ulcers and internal bleeding can occur without warning. Before taking any type of NSAID, also tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or take blood thinners (including warfarin), ACE inhibitors, lithium or furosemide. Also report any sensitivity or allergy to aspirin or similar drugs. Do not take NSAIDs late in pregnancy.

The Arthritis Foundation’s Drug Guide is meant for education — not self-medicating. The Arthritis Foundation does not endorse any products mentioned in this guide. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date, we make no representations or warranties about the completeness of the information provided.