FitSugar

DrSugar Answers: Daily Aspirin For Heart Disease? I'm Only 27

FitSugar — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 11:00:00 -0700

DrSugar is in the house and answering your questions.

Dear DrSugar,
I recently went to the doctor for a checkup. Because my family has a strong history of heart disease, the doctor ran some additional tests. The only test that came back abnormal revealed that I had high levels (4.9) of C-reactive protein. The doctor told me I should start taking aspirin daily to reduce my risk of heart attack. I'm only 27 years old and I have normal cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight. Isn't daily aspirin a little drastic? Should I be concerned about serious heart problems?
- Heartily Concerned

To see what DrSugar has to say about this matter, just read more.

First, I think it is great that due to your family history and you went and got a checkup. Heart disease, in the form of coronary artery disease (i.e. heart attacks), is the leading cause of adult mortality in the United States. There are multiple known risk factors for developing heart disease including: age, sex (men more than women), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and family history. The C-reactive protein test that you mentioned is a nonspecific test, but has been associated with higher incidences of heart disease in a limited number of studies. Its role in treating patients has not been defined. Given that you have normal blood pressure, weight, and cholesterol, the most important risk factors to discuss in your case are age and family history (assuming you don’t smoke). It would be exceedingly rare to suffer a heart attack at an age less than 40. Unless you have a female relative, i.e. sister or mother, who has had a heart attack before they turned 40 then your chances are close to zero.

Aspirin has been shown to reduce the incidence of heart attacks. It is generally used based on a person’s 10-year risk of having a heart attack. This can be calculated easily by using the Framingham Risk Score, which is based on a large-scale study of heart-attack risk. Assuming what you told me is accurate, your calculated risk would be less than 1 percent risk of having a heart attack in the next 10 years. Doctors generally recommend aspirin for anyone with greater than 6 percent risk over 10 years. This risk score does not account for family history, but your family history would have to be very strong to alter the risk. Also remember that men generally have heart disease at a younger age than women. So if your father had a heart attack at 40, you are unlikely to be at risk until later in your 40s or 50s. I think it is always a good idea to get a second opinion if you are unsure about your doctor's advice. In the meantime, the most important things you can do to avoid heart attacks in include regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, avoiding cigarettes, and regular checkups to makes sure you have normal blood pressure and cholesterol.

If you have a question for DrSugar, send me a private message here and I will forward it to the good doctor.

DrSugar's posts are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Click here for more details.

Common Painkillers Linked to High Blood Pressure

FitSugar — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 12:00:03 -0800

It's been recently reported that if you are frequently popping over-the-counter pain meds, you should know that they can raise your blood pressure, which in turn can lead to heart disease.

Although men were the subject of this recent study, it confirms earlier research conducted on the effects of OTC pain medication on women's blood pressure.

The medications studied are staples in your medicine cabinet like aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Researchers found, when reviewing data from both studies, that men and women who took these drugs for 6-7 days in a week were 1/3 more likely to develop high blood pressure.

The study showed that men who took acetaminophen were 34% more likely to be diagnosed with high blood pressure. Men who took aspirin were 26% more likely to have high blood pressure than non-users. Those who used ibuprofen increased their risk by 38%.

These drugs can affect the ability of blood vessels to expand and may also cause sodium retention, which are 2 factors that can both raise blood pressure.

Fit's Tips: If you've been advised by your doctor to take 1 aspirin a day, you should stick with it. If you're popping 8 ibuprofen pills a day to combat lower back pain, you should reconsider your strategy. See if you can fix the problem rather than just masking the pain.

Aspirin (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:48:22 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Aspirin (AS-pir-in)

Treats pain, fever, arthritis, and inflammation. It may also be used to reduce the risk of heart attack.

Brand Name(s)

Medi-First Tri-Buffered Aspirin, Bayer Extra Strength, Quality Choice Aspirin, Norwich Aspirin, Bayer Genuine Aspirin, Aspirtab, Medi-First Aspirin, Aspir-Low, Bayer Aspirin Children's, Aspirin Adult Low Strength, Good Sense Adult Chewable Aspirin, Leader Aspirin, St. Joseph Pain Reliever, Easprin, Ecotrin

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to aspirin or to pain and arthritis medicine (such as Motrin®, Advil®, Naprosyn®). Aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers with fever, chickenpox, or symptoms of the flu or viral infection, because aspirin can cause a serious disease called Reye's syndrome. You should not use this medicine if you have an active stomach ulcer or any kind of bleeding problem.

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet, Chewable Tablet, Coated Tablet, Delayed Release Tablet, Delayed Release Capsule, Gum

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
Swallow the tablet, capsule, or coated tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or break it. The chewable tablet may be completely chewed or swallowed whole.
Completely chew the chewing gum to make sure you get as much medicine as possible. Drink a full glass (8 ounces) of water after chewing the gum.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a tightly closed container at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Aspirin can cause stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. If you have 3 or more drinks of alcohol every day, ask your doctor if you should take aspirin. One drink of alcohol is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others).
Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a blood thinner (such as Coumadin®), probenecid, cortisone medicine (such as prednisone), or methotrexate.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using ticlopidine (Ticlid®), dipyridamole (Persantine®), or sulfinpyrazone (Anturane®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Check with your doctor before using if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have asthma, kidney problems, or a history of ulcers
Aspirin may cause incorrect results with some urine sugar tests.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Severe stomach pain
Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Blood in stools or urine
Skin rash or hives with intense itching
Swelling of the face or eyelids
Wheezing or trouble breathing
Severe dizziness or drowsiness
Ringing in the ears

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Upset stomach
Heartburn

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_0233

Butalbital/aspirin/caffeine (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:46:17 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Aspirin (AS-pir-in), Butalbital (byoo-TAL-bi-tal), Caffeine (kaf-EEN)

Treats tension headaches and mild to moderate pain.Butalbital belongs to a group of drugs known as barbiturates (bar-bi-chur-ates).

Brand Name(s)

Fiorinal, Aspirin/Butalbital/Caffeine

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to: butalbital or related medicine such as phenobarbital or pentobarbital; aspirin, other salicylates, arthritis medicine such as ibuprofen (Motrin®), or caffeine. You should not use this medicine if you have porphyria. Do not give this medicine to a child who has a fever or symptoms of an infection. This drug should not be taken if you have stomach ulcers or a bleeding disorder.

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet, Capsule

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often.
This medicine may be taken with food or milk to avoid stomach upset.
Drink plenty of fluids to help avoid constipation.
This medicine works best if you take it at the first sign of pain, rather than waiting until the pain is very strong.
DO NOT increase your dose without your doctor's approval.
If you have taken large amounts of this medicine or have taken it regularly for several weeks, do not suddenly quit using it without consulting your doctor.

If a dose is missed:

Take it as soon as possible.
If almost time for next dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store in a tightly closed container away from heat and direct light.
Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking any medicines that make you sleepy, such as tranquilizers or sleeping pills.
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
Steroids, diflunisal, prednisone, or phenylbutazone may cause stomach pain if taken while you are taking this medicine.
Tell your doctor if you are taking a blood thinner (such as Coumadin®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have asthma, other lung disease, or liver or kidney problems.
This medicine can cause drug dependence or addiction.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before taking this medicine.
Because this medicine makes some people dizzy or drowsy, be careful when driving a car or using machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Tightness in chest, shortness of breath or trouble breathing
Fast, slowed, or pounding heartbeat
Skin rash, hives, or intense itching
Flushing of the face
Swelling of the eyelids or face.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Lightheadedness, dizziness
Drowsiness
Upset stomach, constipation, gas
Nausea, vomiting
Sweating

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_0077

Aspirin/caffeine (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:04:29 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Aspirin (AS-pir-in), Caffeine (kaf-EEN)

Treats headache, minor pain, and body aches with drowsiness or tiredness. Also treats the symptoms of a hangover caused by drinking alcohol.

Brand Name(s)

Alka-Seltzer Morning Relief, P-A-C Analgesic, Ohmni-Cen, Cope

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to aspirin or caffeine. You should not use this medicine during the last 3 months of pregnancy. This medicine should not be given to children or teenagers with fever, chickenpox, or symptoms of the flu or viral infection. Aspirin can cause a serious disease called Reye's syndrome in children or teenagers. You should not use this medicine if you have an active stomach ulcer or any kind of bleeding problem.

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet, Fizzy Tablet

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
If you are using the effervescent tablet form of this medicine, dissolve the tablets fully in 4 ounces of water. Drink all of this mixture right away.
It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
If this medicine has a strong vinegar smell, throw it away and do not use it.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using enalapril (Vasotec®), verapamil (Calan®, Covera®), lisinopril (Prinivil®, Zestril®). Tell your doctor if you use ramipril (Altace®), quinapril (Accupril®), sulfinpyrazone (Anturane®), ginkgo biloba, a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin®), or anisindione (Miradon®).
Tell your doctor if you have received medicine to treat a blood clot such as urokinase (Abbokinase®), streptokinase (Streptase®), or alteplase (Activase®).
Avoid foods, drinks, or other medicines that contain caffeine or stimulants, including diet pills. If you take them together with this medicine, you may get too much caffeine and have unwanted side effects.
Avoid using other pain or arthritis medicine such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), naproxen (Aleve®), ketoprofen (Orudis®), indomethacin (Indocin®), Celebrex®, Daypro®, or Relafen® while you are using aspirin/caffeine.
Make sure that none of the other medicines you are using also contain aspirin.
Aspirin can cause stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. If you have 3 or more drinks of alcohol every day, ask your doctor if you should use this medicine. One drink of alcohol is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have asthma, gout, or diabetes. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia, or a stomach disorder such as an ulcer, heartburn, or GERD (reflux disease).
The effervescent tablet form of this medicine contains sodium and phenylalanine. Before using an effervescent tablet, tell your doctor if you are on a salt-restricted diet, or if you have phenylketonuria.
Tell your doctor if you have had a fever for more than 3 days, a sore throat for more than 2 days, or pain for more than 10 days.
Aspirin may cause incorrect results with some urine sugar tests.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Bloody or black, tarry stools.
Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Fever, chills, lightheadedness, fainting.
Dark urine, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.
Pain that lasts longer than 10 days.
Pale skin, unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
Redness or swelling.
Severe stomach pain.
Ringing in your ears that won't stop, confusion, stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle movements you cannot control.
Worsening pain or new symptoms.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Feeling restless or jittery.
Mild stomach pain, nausea, heartburn.
Slight ringing in your ears, problems with hearing.
Trouble sleeping.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_4913

Aspirin (Rectal)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:06:01 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Aspirin (AS-pir-in)

Treats minor aches, pains, headache, and fever in people who cannot take aspirin by mouth.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to aspirin. Do not give this medicine to a child or teenager who has chicken pox or symptoms of a virus or the flu, unless your doctor has told you to. If you are pregnant, you should not use this medicine during the last trimester (3 months) of pregnancy unless your doctor tells you to. You should not use this medicine if you have an active stomach ulcer or any kind of bleeding problem.

How to Use This Medicine

Suppository

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
Never take rectal suppositories by mouth.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Remove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it.
Lie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum about 1 inch.
Keep lying down for about 15 minutes to keep the suppository from coming out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

You may store the suppositories in the refrigerator, but do not freeze them.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Aspirin can cause stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. If you regularly drink 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day, do not take aspirin without asking your doctor. One alcoholic drink is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others).
Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin®), or if you are using a pain or arthritis medicine (sometimes called "NSAIDs") such as ibuprofen, naproxen, Advil®, Aleve®, Bextra®, Celebrex®, or Motrin®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have asthma, kidney problems, or a history of ulcers.
Aspirin can cause a rare but serious illness called Reye's syndrome in children and teenagers. If a child has behavior changes along with nausea and vomiting while using this medicine, call the child's doctor right away.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Fever.
Severe nausea or vomiting.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5018

Aspirin/dipyridamole (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:57:35 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Aspirin (AS-pir-in), Dipyridamole (dye-peer-ID-a-mole)

Used to prevent strokes in patients with blood flow disorders or a history of blood clots.

Brand Name(s)

Aggrenox

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an unusual or allergic reaction to aspirin, dipyridamole, or to pain and arthritis medicine (such as Motrin®, Advil®, Naprosyn®). Aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers with fever, chickenpox, or symptoms of the flu or viral infection, because aspirin can cause a serious disease called Reye's syndrome. You should not use this medicine if you have an active stomach ulcer or any kind of bleeding problem.

How to Use This Medicine

Capsule, Long Acting Capsule

Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often.
Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush, break, or chew.

If a dose is missed:

Use the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Aspirin can cause stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. If you have 3 or more drinks of alcohol every day, ask your doctor if you should use this medicine. One drink of alcohol is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others).
Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using aspirin or dipyridamole (Persantine®) (not in combination), ticlopidine (Ticlid®), blood thinners (such as Coumadin®), or pain or arthritis medicine (such as Motrin®, Advil®, or Naprosyn®).
This medicine can interfere with the action of many other medicines. Make sure your doctor has a list of all other medicines you use.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Check with your doctor before using this medicine if you have bleeding disorders, vitamin K deficiency, liver disease, or if you have ever had a stomach ulcer.
Before using this medicine, tell your doctor if you have asthma, chest pain, heart disease, low blood pressure, or kidney disease.
Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
This medicine may cause incorrect results with some urine sugar tests.
Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position to decrease dizziness.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Blood in stools or urine
Chest pain
Severe headache
Severe stomach pain
Skin rash, severe itching or hives
Swelling of the face or eyelids
Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Wheezing or trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache
Easy bruising, nosebleeds
Flushing (redness) in the face
Indigestion
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_0948

Buffered aspirin/pravastatin (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:12:24 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Lowers high cholesterol and prevents blood clots. Decreases risk of heart attack, stroke, heart disease, and death due to heart disease or stroke. Also helps prevent the need to have surgery for heart problems. This package contains an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, sometimes called a "statin."

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pravastatin, aspirin, or any other nonsteroidal (NSAID) pain medicine (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, Advil®, Aleve®, Celebrex®, Motrin®). Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or might become pregnant, and do not breastfeed if you are using this medicine. You should not use this medicine if you have active liver disease, or if you have nasal polyps (small bumps inside your nose and sinuses) with asthma and a stuffy nose. Never give aspirin to a person less than 18 years old.

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet, Tablet

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
You may take this medicine with or without food.
Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet. You might be told to follow a low-fat diet and to exercise more.
Drink a full glass of water (8 ounces) when you take the aspirin, unless your doctor tells you not to.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicine you are using to lower cholesterol. This includes niacin, cholestyramine (Questran®), colestipol (Colestid®), or a fibrate medicine such as gemfibrozil (Lopid®) or fenofibrate (Tricor®).
Tell your doctor if you are also using cyclosporine (Gengraf®, Neoral®, Sandimmune®), acetazolamide (Diamox®), methotrexate (Rheumatrex®), ketoconazole (Nizoral®), cimetidine (Tagamet®), or erythromycin. Tell your doctor if you are using a blood thinner such as heparin or warfarin (Coumadin®).
Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using medicine to lower blood pressure, such as an ACE inhibitor (enalapril, lisinopril, Accupril®, Lotrel®, Zestril®) or a beta blocker (atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol, Toprol®).
Tell your doctor if you are also using medicine to treat seizures (such as phenytoin, valproic acid, Dilantin®, Depakene®), diabetes medicine that you take by mouth (such as glyburide, metformin, Actos®, Glucotrol®), or medicine to treat gout (such as probenecid, sulfinpyrazone, Anturane®, Benemid®).
Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a diuretic ("water pill") such as furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), indapamide, metolazone, spironolactone, triamterene, Lasix®, Lozol®, Maxzide®, or Zaroxolyn®.
Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol, especially if you have three or more drinks in a day.
Do not use any other medicine that contains aspirin or pravastatin, unless your doctor tells you to. Some products that might contain aspirin are Bayer®, Bufferin®, Ecotrin®, or Excedrin®.
Avoid other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) unless your doctor says it is okay to use them. Some other NSAIDs are ibuprofen, naproxen, Advil®, Aleve®, Celebrex®, or Motrin®.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are using medicines that weaken your immune system, such as a steroid or cancer treatment.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have liver disease, kidney disease, low blood pressure, epilepsy, stomach ulcer, or bleeding or blood-clotting problems.
Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine.
Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
Aspirin may contain sodium (salt). Tell your doctor if you are on a low-salt diet, or if you have a health condition affected by salt, such as congestive heart failure.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Blistering, peeling, red skin rash.
Bloody or black, tarry stools.
Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Change in the way you are breathing.
Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
Fever.
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach.
Ringing in your ears.
Unusual bruising or bleeding.
Unusual or severe muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.
Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Mild muscle aches or skin rash.
Mild nausea or heartburn.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5509

Acetaminophen/aspirin/caffeine/salicylamide (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:11:31 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Acetaminophen (a-seet-a-MIN-oh-fen), Aspirin (AS-pir-in), Caffeine (kaf-EEN), Salicylamide (sal-i-SIL-a-mide)

Treats minor pain.

Brand Name(s)

Exaprin, No Pain, Medi-First Pain Relief, Saleto, Levacet

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to acetaminophen or salicylates. In most cases, you should not use this medicine if you have liver disease or kidney disease, or if you are using a medicine for blood clotting.

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
This combination medicine contains acetaminophen (Tylenol(R)). Carefully check the labels of all other medicines you are using because they may also contain acetaminophen. It is not safe to use more than 4 grams (4,000 milligrams) of acetaminophen in one day (24 hours).

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are using phenobarbital, or a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin®).
Avoid foods, drinks, or other medicines that contain caffeine (such as some diet pills and pain relievers). If you take them together with this medicine, you may get too much caffeine and have unwanted side effects.
Many combination medicines contain acetaminophen or aspirin. Carefully check the labels of all other medicines you are using to be sure they do not contain acetaminophen or aspirin. Using too much of these medicines can cause serious side effects.
Ask your doctor before using this medicine if you drink 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day. One alcoholic drink is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others). People who use acetaminophen or aspirin and drink alcohol have an increased risk of liver damage or stomach bleeding.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have a stomach ulcer, asthma, or problems with your blood.
Aspirin can cause a rare but serious illness called Reye's syndrome in children and teenagers. Do not give this medicine to a child or teenager who has chicken pox or symptoms of a virus or the flu, unless your doctor has told you to. If a child has behavior changes along with nausea and vomiting while using this medicine, call the child's doctor right away.
This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.
If your symptoms do not improve within 10 days, or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Change in how much or how often you urinate.
Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
Fast or uneven heartbeat.
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach.
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Diarrhea, or stomach pain.
Dry mouth.
Nausea, vomiting, or heartburn.
Nervousness, irritability, or trouble sleeping.
Ringing in your ears, or loss of hearing.
Unusual tiredness or drowsiness.
Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5443

Aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:05:23 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Aspirin (AS-pir-in), Citric Acid (SI-trik AS-id), Sodium Bicarbonate (SOE-dee-um bye-KARB-oh-nate)

Treats heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach with headache, minor pain, or body aches. Also treats the symptoms of a hangover caused by drinking alcohol.

Brand Name(s)

Alka-Seltzer Extra Strength, Quality Choice Effervescent Pain Relief, Alka-Seltzer, Pain Relief, Medi-Seltzer

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to aspirin, citric acid, or sodium bicarbonate. You should not use this medicine during the last 3 months of pregnancy. This medicine should not be given to children or teenagers with fever, chickenpox, or symptoms of the flu or viral infection. Aspirin can cause a serious disease called Reye's syndrome in children or teenagers. You should not use this medicine if you have an active stomach ulcer or any kind of bleeding problem.

How to Use This Medicine

Fizzy Tablet, Tablet

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
If you are using the effervescent tablet form of this medicine, dissolve the tablets fully in 4 ounces of water. Drink all of this mixture right away.
It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

There are many other medicines that should not be taken together with an antacid, such as sodium bicarbonate. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are using.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin®).
Make sure that none of the other medicines you are using also contain aspirin.
Aspirin can cause stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. If you have 3 or more drinks of alcohol every day, ask your doctor if you should use this medicine. One drink of alcohol is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have arthritis, asthma, diabetes, gout, or a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia. Make sure your doctor knows if you have a stomach disorder such as an ulcer, heartburn that last or come back frequently, or GERD (reflux disease).
Tell your doctor if your symptoms get worse or last longer than 10 days.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Bloody or black, tarry stools.
Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Fever, chills, lightheadedness, fainting.
Dark urine, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.
Pain that lasts longer than 10 days.
Pale skin, unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
Redness or swelling.
Severe stomach pain.
Ringing in your ears that will not stop.
Worsening pain or new symptoms.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Mild stomach pain, nausea, heartburn.
Slight ringing in your ears, problems with hearing.
Trouble sleeping.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_4973