Aspirin
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is related to drugs called salicylates . It is an over-the-counter pain medication under familiar brands such as Anacin, Bayer, Bufferin, Ecotrin, Excedrin, and St. Joseph.
These are used to relieve mild pain, fever, and as a blood thinner.
What are the common side effects? You may experience stomach problems such as stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, heartburn and vomiting. Stomach irritation may lead to stomach ulcers and bleeding.
You can reduce the risk of stomach problems by taking aspirin with food or milk.
Other possible side effects include allergic reactions such as hives, facial swelling, wheezing, and asthma. You may also experience ringing in the ears and slight deafness
If you notice any of these effects, stop taking the medication and call your doctor.
Aspiring may be a “wonder drug,” but there are times when you should avoid taking it. Obviously, if you are allergic to it, you should avoid aspirin, or if you have stomach ulcers
If you have liver or kidney disease, ask your doctor if you can take aspirin. Do not take aspirin if you drink more than three drinks a day.
Acetaminophen
Patients with arthritis know that sometimes acetaminophen (Tylenol) relieves them of pain.
Acetaminophen, when taken as directed, has few side effects, but if taken more than what is directed or taking it longer than directed and combined with alcoholic drinks, it can cause liver damage or even liver failure.
Like aspirin, acetaminophen is an ingredient in many over-the-counter (OCT) drugs. So, it is important that you check your other medications to avoid overdosing. Because of the danger of overdosing, the maker of Extra-Strength Tylenol has reduced the 8-hour pill which had 4,000 mg to a 6-hour pill which has only 3,000 mg.
The side effects of acetaminophen over dose is not immediately noticeable, but if you think you may have taken too much, call 911 or poison control at 1800-222-1222 immediately.
(to be continued)
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