Aspirin: What It Does and How to Use It Right

If you’ve ever reached for a pill to calm a headache or lower a fever, chances are it was aspirin. This cheap drug has two main jobs: easing pain and acting as a blood thinner. Because it’s so common, many people treat it like candy – but that can be risky.

How to Use Aspirin Safely

The first step is knowing the right dose. For most adults, 325‑500 mg every four to six hours works for headaches or muscle aches. Never exceed 4 g in a day unless a doctor tells you otherwise. If you’re using aspirin to lower heart risk, doctors usually recommend low‑dose tablets (81 mg) taken once daily.

Take the pill with food or a full glass of water. This helps protect your stomach lining, which can get irritated by aspirin’s acidity. If you have a history of ulcers or stomach bleeding, talk to a pharmacist about a coated version or an alternative pain reliever.

Aspirin interacts with several medicines. Blood thinners like warfarin, certain antidepressants, and some diabetes drugs can amplify bleeding risks. Always list all your meds when you ask a healthcare professional about starting aspirin.

When to Skip Aspirin

If you’re pregnant, especially in the third trimester, avoid aspirin unless a doctor says it’s needed. The drug can affect the baby’s blood flow and increase bleeding during delivery.

Kids under 12 should not take regular aspirin because of the rare but serious Reye’s syndrome, which damages the liver and brain after viral infections. For fever or pain in children, use acetaminophen or ibuprofen instead.

If you notice bruising easily, nosebleeds that won’t stop, or dark stools, stop taking aspirin and get medical help right away. These signs mean your blood might not be clotting properly.

People with severe kidney or liver disease should also be cautious. The organs that process drugs can get overloaded, leading to toxic buildup.

Remember, a single low‑dose aspirin each day can lower the risk of heart attacks for some adults, but it’s not a one‑size‑fits‑all solution. Your age, health history and other medicines determine if the benefit outweighs the risk.

On Pharmadoctor.co.uk you’ll find more articles that explain specific drugs, how they work together, and what to watch out for. Use our guides to stay informed before you reach for any medication.