Common Side Effects of Aspirin
Aspirin, an NSAID, frequently causes gastrointestinal issues like stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. It irritates the stomach lining, increasing risks of ulcers and bleeding—up to 15% of regular users develop ulcers, with bleeding in 2-4% annually.[1][2]
Serious Risks Like Bleeding and Reye's Syndrome
High-dose or long-term use raises bleeding risks, including gastrointestinal hemorrhage (fatal in 5-10% of cases), brain bleeds, and easy bruising. Children and teens face Reye's syndrome risk during viral illnesses like flu or chickenpox, causing liver and brain damage—now rare due to warnings but historically linked to thousands of U.S. cases yearly.[1][3][4]
Who Should Avoid Aspirin?
People with ulcers, asthma (10-20% risk of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease), bleeding disorders, or on blood thinners face higher dangers. It's unsafe in late pregnancy (risks fetal harm and bleeding) and for kids under 16 during viral infections.[2][5]
Allergic Reactions and Overdose Effects
Allergies trigger hives, swelling, or anaphylaxis in 0.3-0.5% of users. Overdose leads to tinnitus, rapid breathing, confusion, seizures, coma, and metabolic acidosis—salicylate toxicity kills about 100 Americans yearly.[1][6]
Interactions with Other Drugs or Conditions
Aspirin amplifies bleeding with anticoagulants like warfarin, weakens diuretics, and raises uric acid in gout patients. Alcohol worsens stomach risks.[2]
[1]: FDA Aspirin Label
[2]: Mayo Clinic Aspirin Side Effects
[3]: CDC Reye's Syndrome
[4]: NEJM Aspirin Risks Review
[5]: American College of Rheumatology Guidelines
[6]: Poison Control Salicylate Toxicity