Acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, inflammation and fever. It is an odorless, white, crystalline solid. Aspirin is used every day by millions of people, safely and effectively. But if you experience an allergic reaction to aspirin, see a doctor immediately.
Facts
Acetylsalicylic acid is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat pain, inflammation and fever. It can also be used to help prevent heart attack, stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). Acetylsalicylic acid can be purchased as aspirin over the counter in pharmacies and grocery stores.
Identification
Acetylsalicylic acid is an odorless, white, crystalline solid with the following characteristics:
Molecular formula = C9H8O4
Molecular mass = 180.16 g/mol
Specific Gravity = 1.35
Melting point = 135°C (275°F)
Boiling point = 140°C (284°F) [decomposes]
Solubility in water = 3.3 g/L @ 20°C (68°F)
pH = 3.5 @ 20°C (68°F) [2.5 g/L]
Benefits
Acetylsalicylic acid can relieve mild to moderate pain from arthritis, headache, gout, toothache, muscle ache, and surgery. It can also reduce fever from cold, influenza, and infection. Small daily doses of acetylsalicylic acid can aid in the prevention of heart attack, stroke, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), pre-eclampsia, spontaneous abortion, premature birth and fetal growth retardation.
Use
Acetylsalicylic acid tablets are usually taken every four to six hours by those suffering from pain and fever. Additionally, some doctors recommend a daily dose to certain patients to prevent various conditions. Follow your doctor's specific instructions. If you feel unwell after you begin taking acetylsalicylic acid, call your doctor.
Side Effects
Acetylsalicylic acid can cause any of the following side effects, which you should watch out for: bleeding, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, swelling, fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, agitation, confusion, dizziness, headache, swelling of the brain, fever, coma, rash, welts, acidosis, high levels of potassium in the blood, dehydration, low blood sugar, high blood sugar, high levels of sodium in the blood, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, gastric discomfort, heartburn, stomach pain, stomach ulcers, gastric erosion, anemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, changes in blood coagulation, iron deficiency, liver problems, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, kidney problems, asthma, bronchospasm, difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, stillbirth, low birth weight and Reye's syndrome.
Special Considerations
If you have had an allergic reaction to a product that contains acetylsalicylic acid, any salicylate, or other NSAIDs, be sure to tell your doctor before using it. If you have an allergic reaction (rash, itching, difficulty breathing) after taking it, be sure to see a doctor immediately. Children should not be given acetylsalicylic acid when they have a viral infection such as chickenpox, cold, or influenza because of a risk of developing Reye's syndrome.
Warning
Acetylsalicylic acid overdose can cause ringing in the ears, headache, dizziness, confusion, high fever and low blood sugar. If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor immediately.
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