Aspirin: Uses, Doses, Side Effects & Safe Use
Aspirin is one of the oldest and most common medicines you’ll find in a home cabinet. People use it for pain and fever, but it’s also used in low doses to lower the risk of heart attack and some strokes. That usefulness comes with real risks, so knowing when and how to use aspirin matters.
How aspirin works and when people take it
Aspirin blocks enzymes called COX that help make prostaglandins — molecules that cause pain, fever, and inflammation. It also reduces platelet clumping, which is why low-dose aspirin is used to prevent blood clots. Typical reasons people take aspirin:
- Pain relief for headaches, muscle aches, tooth pain.
- Short-term fever reduction.
- Low-dose daily use (usually 75–100 mg) after a heart attack or to prevent a second heart attack — only when a doctor recommends it.
- Occasionally recommended in pregnancy for specific conditions, but only under medical advice.
How much aspirin should I take?
Dosage depends on why you’re taking it. For pain or fever, adults often use 325–650 mg every 4–6 hours as needed, not exceeding about 3,000–4,000 mg per day. For heart protection, the common low dose is 81 mg (sometimes 75–100 mg) once daily. Don’t guess your dose — follow the package or your doctor’s instructions.
Never give aspirin to children or teens with a viral illness (flu, chickenpox). Doing so can cause Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
Stopping aspirin before surgery is usually advised. Most surgeons ask you to stop about 7 days before an operation to reduce bleeding risk. Ask the surgeon and your prescribing doctor before stopping any meds.
Risks, interactions, and when to see a doctor
Aspirin raises bleeding risk — stomach bleeding, nosebleeds, and more serious bleeding are possible. Common side effects include stomach upset, heartburn, and in higher doses, ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Severe allergic reactions are rare but need urgent care.
- Avoid or use caution with blood thinners (warfarin, DOACs), other NSAIDs, and high alcohol intake — bleeding risk adds up.
- SSRI antidepressants can increase bleeding risk when combined with aspirin.
- If you have active peptic ulcer disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a bleeding disorder, talk to your doctor before taking aspirin.
Questions like “Should I start daily aspirin?” or “Can I stop my aspirin before surgery?” deserve a short chat with your clinician. If you notice black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, sudden severe headache, weakness, or unusual bruising — get medical help right away.
Want to buy aspirin online? Use a reputable pharmacy, check active ingredient and dose, and avoid suspiciously cheap or unbranded pills. If you’re unsure if aspirin is right for you, ask a healthcare professional first.