Can aspirin make you feel drowsy?
Yes. Aspirin can cause drowsiness in some people, along with other effects like dizziness or a general “sleepy” feeling. This is more likely with higher doses, in people who are sensitive to aspirin, or if you take it and also drink alcohol or take other medicines that cause drowsiness.
What side effects besides drowsiness should you watch for?
Along with sleepiness, aspirin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea. Drowsiness is also sometimes seen with overdose or salicylate toxicity, which can happen if you take too much or if aspirin builds up in your body (for example, in certain medical conditions).
Seek urgent care right away if drowsiness comes with warning signs such as:
- confusion or extreme sleepiness
- vomiting that will not stop
- fast or unusual breathing
- ringing in the ears, severe dizziness, or worsening headache
When is aspirin more likely to cause drowsiness?
Drowsiness risk goes up if:
- you took more than the recommended dose (or took multiple aspirin-containing products)
- you are smaller in body size (children and some smaller adults may be more affected)
- you combined aspirin with alcohol or sedating medicines (such as some antihistamines or sleep/anxiety medications)
- you have conditions that can affect how your body handles salicylates (for example, certain kidney problems)
- you are already dehydrated or ill, which can make side effects feel stronger
Can drowsiness be a sign of an allergy or overdose?
Allergic reactions usually include more than drowsiness, such as hives, facial/lip swelling, wheezing, or trouble breathing.
Overdose/toxicity is a bigger concern if drowsiness is severe or worsening and comes with other symptoms like confusion, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, or ringing in the ears.
What should you do if aspirin makes you drowsy?
If the drowsiness is mild and you took the correct dose, avoid driving or operating machinery and consider whether you should stop taking aspirin until you speak with a clinician or pharmacist.
If symptoms are strong, getting worse, or paired with warning signs, get medical help promptly. In the US, you can also call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance.
Does low-dose aspirin cause drowsiness too?
Low-dose aspirin can still cause side effects in some people, including dizziness or sleepiness. If you notice the same reaction every time you take it, it is worth discussing alternatives with a healthcare professional.
Sources:
- No external sources were provided with the question, so no citations are included.