Aspirin is one of the most common over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers, and it is also a common ingredient in many other types of over-the-counter medications. Baby aspirin has a small dose of aspirin, and many doctors recommend it to help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Some aspirin products are also used to help relieve cold and flu symptoms. Aspirin and products containing aspirin can cause stomach problems in some people, especially if taken incorrectly.
Classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), aspirin is one of the most popular over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. It is made up of acetylsalicylic acid, which can be found in the bark of the willow tree. Some aspirin products can be used to reduce swelling of injured areas.
Some of the most popular aspirin products are used as analgesics, or pain killers. Aspirin typically works best on certain types of pain, particularly dull aching pains. When paired with caffeine, aspirin effects are enhanced, although it is still not as strong as some other over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen.
Low-dose aspirin usually contains a very small dose of aspirin, and it is often referred to as baby aspirin. This medication helps thin the blood, so it can move easier through the arteries and other blood vessels. Many doctors often advise some people to take one baby aspirin each day to help prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Along with relieving aches and pains, aspirin is also very effective at lowering fevers. It is sometimes added to cold and flu medication because of this. This type of medicine may be in tablet, gel cap, or effervescent tablet form.
Effervescent aspirin is one of the most common types of products for this type of illness. These large tablets are supposed to be dropped into glasses of water. When they come in contact with the water, they begin to fizz and dissolve. After the aspirin tablets are dissolved, a cold sufferer can drink the mixture to help relieve his symptoms.
Although they can often help cure many ailments, aspirin and aspirin products should be taken with caution. They can cause a number of side effects and problems. Stomach problems are typically the most common side effects of aspirin. This can range from a mild upset stomach to a more serious bleeding ulcer. To avoid these side effects, aspirin products can be taken with food or milk.