What are the side effects of aspirin?
Mar 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Aspirin belongs to the class of antipyretic and analgesic drugs. Improper use may cause adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic reactions, bleeding tendency, salicylate reaction, and liver or kidney function damage. Therefore, patients may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, rash, bleeding tendency, headache, and dizziness during medication. To ensure safe medication use, it is recommended to take the drug as directed by a physician.
Generally, aspirin is a type of antipyretic and analgesic medication. Common formulations include enteric-coated tablets and powders. Long-term use may lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal reactions, allergic reactions, bleeding tendencies, salicylism, and liver or kidney function damage. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Gastrointestinal Reactions
Aspirin can significantly irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Prolonged use may cause local irritation, leading to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. During treatment, medications such as sucralfate chewable tablets, potassium bismuth citrate capsules, or colloidal bismuth pectin capsules may be used under a physician's guidance to protect the gastrointestinal mucosa.
2. Allergic Reactions
If a patient is allergic to aspirin, long-term use may trigger allergic reactions such as rashes or hives. The medication should be discontinued promptly, and treatments such as calamine lotion, loratadine capsules, or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets may be used as directed by a physician.
3. Bleeding Tendency
Aspirin primarily achieves therapeutic effects by inhibiting platelet aggregation. During treatment, it may increase the risk of bleeding, manifesting as gum bleeding, nosebleeds, or subcutaneous bruising. Regular monitoring of blood counts and coagulation function is necessary, and dosage adjustments should be made according to individual conditions.
4. Salicylism
Some patients who take high doses or long-term aspirin may develop salicylism, leading to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and tinnitus. The drug should be discontinued promptly, and if necessary, medications such as sodium bicarbonate tablets, sodium lactate solution, or furosemide tablets may be administered as directed by a physician.
5. Liver and Kidney Function Damage
High-dose aspirin may affect liver and kidney function, potentially causing symptoms such as proteinuria and edema. It is recommended to regularly monitor liver and kidney function and appropriately adjust the dosage.
It should be noted that aspirin's side effects vary from person to person and cannot be generalized. To minimize side effects, the medication should be taken under a physician's guidance.
