Aspirin

Question 1

Generic Name:

Answer 1

Acetylsalicylic Acid, Aspirin, ASA

Question 2

Trade Name:

Answer 2

Bayer

Question 3

Class:

Answer 3

Analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammaotry

Question 4

Mechanism of Action:

Answer 4

• In small doses aspirin blocks thromboxane A2, a potent platelet aggregate and vasoconstrictor.
• This property has led to its use in the acute phase of management of myocardial infarction.
• Decreased platelet aggregation

Question 5

Indications and Field Use:

Answer 5

• Chest pain or other signs/symptoms suggestive of acute myocardial infarction
• ECG changes suggestive of acute myocardial infarction
  -Unstable angina
  Pain, discomfort, fever in adult patient only

Question 6

Contraindications:

Answer 6

• Bleeding ulcer, hemorrhagic states, hemophilia
• Known hypersensitivity to salicylate or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories that has led to hypotension and/or bronchospasm
• Children and adolescents (prehospital personnel should not administer ASA to this age group).

Question 7

Adverse Reactions:

Answer 7

• Use with caution in the patient with history of asthma. Anaphylactic reactions in sensitive patients have occurred; skin eruptions
• Other side effects rare with single dose

Question 8

Incompatibilities/Drug interactions:

Answer 8

Not applicable with single dose therapy

Question 9

Adult Dosage:

Answer 9

• Cardiac 160 - 325mg (2-4 pediatric chewable tablets), chew or swallow
• Pain/discomfort/fever: 324 po (4 pediatric chewable tablets), chew or swallow

Question 10

Pediatric Dosage:

Answer 10

Not recommended for prehospital

Question 11

Routes of Administration:

Answer 11

Oral

Question 12

Onset of Action:

Answer 12

20 - 30 minutes

Question 13

Peak Effects:

Answer 13

2 hours

Question 14

Duration of Action:

Answer 14

4 - 6 hours

Question 15

Arizona Drug Box Minimum Supply:

Answer 15

324mg

Question 16

Special Notes:

Answer 16

Baby ASA is heat and light sensitive. The odor of acetic acid (vinegar-like smell) indicates degradation of product.

Question 17

Supplied:

Answer 17

81mg children chewable tablet