acetylsalicylic acid poisoning /əsē′təlsal′isil″ik, as′itəl-/ , the toxic effects of overdosage of the commonly used antipyretic and analgesic drug, aspirin. Early symptoms include dizziness, ringing in the ears, changes in body temperature, GI discomfort, and hyperventilation. Severe poisoning is marked by respiratory alkalosis, which may lead to metabolic acidosis. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the potential toxic effects of salicylates. See also Reye’s syndrome, salicylate poisoning.
