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Frequently Asked Questions about Aspirin
- What are the different uses for aspirin?
Aspirin has been used for thousands of years for pain management, but recent research has discovered a myriad of other uses including:
- Prevention of stroke in patients with Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or previous stroke
- Prevention of recurrent heart attacks
- Treatment of suspected emergent heart attack
- Treatment of minor aches and pains of arthritis
- Headache
- It is currently being studied for its potential in the prevention of certain types of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease (currently not FDA approved)
- What aspirin regimen doses are usually prescribed?
Earlier treatments focused on dosages of 325mg of aspirin, or the amount in one regular, adult aspirin. Recent studies have shown that smaller doses such as 81mg and 162mg — one quarter or one half a regular aspirin — are effective in the prevention of heart attack and stroke with potentially less risk.
- How do I know what dose is right for me?
Determining what dose is right for you is a decision you should discuss with your doctor. Depending on your health risks, your doctor may recommend anywhere from a baby aspirin strength (81mg) to regular strength aspirin (325mg or more). However, at least one major medical review of research involving the benefits and risks of low dose aspirin indicates that the most appropriate dose for prevention of heart attack and stroke may be 160mg of aspirin. In addition, Halfprin 162 mg is the only low dose aspirin with 162mg aspirin, which is the dosage the FDA recommends for use during a suspected heart attack. And, taking a 162mg aspirin during a suspected heart attack can increase survival rate by 23%. (20)
- Should I take aspirin for heart attack and stroke prevention?
This question is best answered by your doctor. Never begin taking any medication without consulting your doctor first. You and your physician will discuss the benefits and asses the risks of beginning a low strength daily aspirin regimen based on your individual circumstances.
- Can I take any pain-reliever and get the same results?
No. Non-aspirin pain relievers have not shown the same benefits for heart attacks and strokes as aspirin. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen and others are good for pain and fevers; however, they do not protect you against heart attack and stroke.
- Is aspirin safe? What are the risks of aspirin use?
Like all drugs, aspirin use can be associated with side effects. The most common side effects associated with aspirin use relate to stomach discomfort and in rare cases bleeding, which can be serious. The bleeding risk can be increased based on other drugs you might be taking. In addition, some people experience allergic reactions associated with aspirin use. You should discuss your individual situation with your health care professional before initiating or changing your aspirin therapy. Halfprin is safety coated — what is called an enteric coated aspirin — to help reduce stomach irritation.
- What are the FDA-approved uses for aspirin?
Aspirin is approved for treating pain and the discomfort associated with headache, arthritis and other conditions. In addition, it is approved for use in heart attack prevention and stroke prevention in individuals with a previous history of such events or those with angina or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). Currently aspirin, although recommended in clinical guidances and something your doctor may consider for you, is not approved for use in individuals who have not had a heart attack, stroke, TIA or angina.
- Can I take other pain-relievers while I am on a daily aspirin therapy for heart health?
Yes, however, taking other pain-relievers may interfere with aspirin's heart benefits. Consult your doctor for more information regarding the timing of when to take these two medicines so that both can be effective.
- Can I drink alcohol while on aspirin therapy?
Alcohol consumed occasionally and in moderation should not affect your health. However, alcohol can irritate the lining of the stomach and increase the risk of bleeding. Consult with your doctor as to whether or not you should use aspirin if you consume more than three alcoholic drinks per day.
- Should I take aspirin during a suspected heart attack?
The most important action you can take during a suspected heart attack is to contact emergency services. Call 911 as soon as you notice symptoms. Then, chew an aspirin. Chewing the pill enables the drug to be absorbed into your system within five minutes. The recommended dosage of aspirin to take during a suspected heart attack is half a regular strength aspirin, or 160-162 mg. Halfprin 162 mg is the only product available in this dose.
- Who should consider aspirin therapy?
The decision to begin aspirin therapy is one that should involve both you and your doctor. The following are characteristics of men and women for whom aspirin therapy may be recommended:
- A history of heart disease
- Diabetes
- Multiple risk factors (e.g., smoking, obesity, inactivity)
- Family history of heart disease
- How does aspirin work?
Aspirin reduces the production of substances called prostaglandins which have many functions. They are involved in feeling pain, fever, the redness and swelling that can accompany injuries, and even in contracting certain muscles. Since aspirin lowers the amount of prostaglandins, it can help alleviate conditions like pain, fever and the discomfort of menstrual cramps. Aspirin also reduces production of substances involved in blood clotting. This is what helps lower your risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- What is meant by "safety coated" or "enteric coated"?
An enteric coated aspirin has a safety coating that delays the release of the drug until it reaches the intestine and protects your stomach. Because of the delayed release coating on Halfprin products, it is not recommended for quick pain relief. During a suspected heart attack, you can chew the pill before swallowing it to bypass the coating and get it into your system quickly. Enteric-coated aspirin are most often recommended by physicians for daily aspirin therapy.
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