Aspirin

Classification:

Anticoagulant

Analgesic

Action:                     

Inhibits the aggregation of platelets

Prolongs bleeding time

Indications:             

Suspected myocardial infarction

Suspected myocardial ischemia

Signs and symptoms of recent stroke (CVA)

Contraindications:

Active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers

Hypersensitivity/Allergy

Acute asthma

Adverse Effects:      

Cardiovascular

Prolonged bleeding time

alters platelet aggregtion

Gastrointestinal

Bleeding

heartburn

epigastric pain

nausea/vomit

Respiratory

 wheezing

Administration: 

   160-325 mg PO chewed and swallowed

Pediatrics:                

          Not recommended

Onset: 

Duration:                 

Onset:    5 - 30 minutes

Duration:  1 - 4 hours  (24 hours anticoagulant effect)

Precautions:           

Use with caution in patients who have preexisting:

                        -ulcer and liver disease

                        -bleeding disorders

                                    or

-patients taking anticoagulant medications such as Coumadin.

Note:                          

Aspirin should be chewed for faster systemic absorption

and to decrease potential gastric distress.