AspirinCommon preparations
Soluble aspirin needs to be dissolved in water; enteric coated tablets are designed to help prevent gastric irritation and must be swallowed whole not dissolved or chewed. Regular aspirin should be swallowed whole.
Why are they used?
Aspirin reduces the risk of a first or another heart attack.
It is prescribed to lower the chances of blood clots forming. Blood clots can be
responsible for causing a heart attack.
How does it work?
Aspirin makes 'platelets' (blood particles) less sticky. Platelets start the formation of blood clots which can be responsible for causing a heart attack. Less sticky blood means less chance of a blood clot forming and less chance of having a heart attack.
What to look out for & special instructions
- As aspirin affects the blood's ability to clot, you may bleed or bruise easily.
- To avoid aspirin irritating the stomach, take it with food, milk or after a meal. If you start to suffer with bad indigestion or abdominal pain, you should contact your practice nurse or GP.
- Be aware that some other medications (especially cough or cold mixtures) obtained over the pharmacy counter contain aspirin. It is best to check that it does not contain aspirin. If in doubt, ask your pharmacist.
- In the rare situation that you are allergic to aspirin, you would start to wheeze after taking it. You should contact your doctor immediately.