Aspirin, Acetylsalicylic Acid, ASA (Bayer)

Question 1

Drug Classification

Answer 1

Platelet aggregation inhibitor/anti-inflammatory, Salicylate

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

• inhibits platelet aggregation by blocking the formation of Thromboxane A2 -> Thromboxane A2 causes platelet aggregation and arterial constriction
• COX inhibitor -> inhibits prostaglandin synthesis and reduces spread of inflammation

Question 3

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 3

• Onset of Action- 5-30 minutes
• Peak Effect- 15-120 minutes
• Duration of Effect- 1-4 hours
• Half-Life- 15-20 minutes

Question 4

Indications/Field Use

Answer 4

Chest Pain suggestive of AMI/ACS

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Hypersensitivity, active GI bleed

Question 6

Side Effects

Answer 6

GI bleed, wheezing, N&V, heartburn, prolonged bleeding

Question 7

Dose

Answer 7

Adult
160-325mg PO; 81mg baby ASA preferred as it can be chewed/swallowed

Pedi
Not recommended

Question 8

Precautions

Answer 8

Can cause GI upset

Question 9

Drug-Drug interactions

Answer 9

• Enhanced side effects with other anti-inflammatory agents

- Decreased absorption with concurrent administration of antacids