Zorprin

ASPIRIN - ORAL (ASP-er-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S):

Ascriptin, Bufferin, Cama, Easprin, Ecotrin, Empirin

WARNING:

Children and teenagers should not use aspirin, aspirin- containing or aspirin-related medications for flu symptoms or chickenpox without first consulting a doctor. A rare but serious illness known as Reye's syndrome may occur.

USES:

Aspirin is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, reduce fever, to reduce inflammation and swelling in conditions such as arthritis and is used in low doses as a "blood thinner" to prevent the formation of blood clots. It is effective in reducing the risk of stroke and offers a protective effect against heart attacks in men with chest pain.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION:

Take by mouth with food or after meals to prevent stomach upset. Take this medication with 6 to 8 ounces (180-240ml) of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug. Sustained release, long acting or enteric-coated preparations must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew them or the sustained activity may be destroyed and side effects increased.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Stomach upset is the most common side effect. Others include heartburn, loss of appetite or dizziness. Notify your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop:
persistent ringing in the ears, difficulty hearing, dark urine, yellowing eyes, easy bruising, persistent stomach pain, black stools. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS:

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor before using aspirin:
liver disease, kidney disease, bleeding disorders, ulcers, stomach/intestinal problems, nasal polyps, gout, asthma, allergies. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin if they have chickenpox, influenza or any undiagnosed illness without first consulting a doctor about Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness. If you have congestive heart failure or are on a sodium- restricted diet, do not take effervescent aspirin tablets or powders because they are high in sodium. If you have had oral surgery or your tonsils removed in the last seven days, do not use chewable aspirin tablets, effervescent aspirin or aspirin in crushed tablets or gargles. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Aspirin is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before taking aspirin. Aspirin is excreted into breast milk. Though to date there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Aspirin that has a strong vinegar-like odor is old and should not be used.