Lupus Site - a guide for lupus patients and their families

Brand names - Anadin, Aspergum, Bayer Childrens, Beechams powders, Bufferin, Dispirin, Easprin, Ecotrin, Empirin, Genprin, Genuine Bayer, Halfprin, Magnaprin, ZORprin.

Medication type - NSAID

Common side effects - Stomach upset, rash, nausea, ringing in the ears.

Rare side effects - Insomnia.

Serious side effects - Vomiting, agitation, extreme fatigue, confusion; allergic reaction causing troubled breathing, redness of face, itching, swelling of face, lips, or eyelids. These are symptoms of Reyes syndrome, a rare but serious disorder that is most likely to affect patients under the age of 16. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Dosage - For pain or fever: 325 to 650 mg every 4 hours as needed. For prevention of blood clots: 80 to 100 mg daily or every other day. For arthritis: 3,600 to 5,400 mg daily in divided doses.

Uses - For mild to moderate everyday pain and inflammation; to reduce fever; to prevent the formation of blood clots; to ease the inflammation, joint pain, and stiffness associated with arthritis.

Other notes - Starts to take effect within 30 minutes. Swallow aspirin with food or a full glass of water to lessen stomach irritation. Alcohol intake should be limited because it increases the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding. Do not use aspirin during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless prescribed by your doctor. Aspirin passes into breast milk. Avoid it or do not nurse.