aspirin (ASA) /as″pirin/ , an analgesic, antipyretic, and antiinflammatory. Also called acetylsalicylic acid. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed to reduce fever and relieve pain and inflammation. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Bleeding disorders, peptic ulcer, pregnancy, concomitant use of anticoagulants, or known hypersensitivity to salicylates prohibit its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse reactions are ulcers, occult bleeding, clotting defects, renal toxicities, tinnitus, dyspepsia, and allergic reactions. Reye’s syndrome has been associated with aspirin use in children.
