How it is administered

Aspirin is usually taken by mouth in the form of tablets. There are regular tablets, chewable tablets, and delayed-release tablets. It is important to drink a full glass of water with each dose. Some tablets should be chewed or crushed completely before swallowing, while others should be swallowed whole. Always follow your doctor's instructions or the directions on the package.

How it works

Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking certain natural substances in your body to reduce pain and swelling. Aspirin also has an effect on platelets, which are cells in your blood that help with clotting. By making platelets less sticky, aspirin can help prevent blood clots from forming.

In blood cancers, aspirin is not used to treat the cancer itself, but it may be recommended to help reduce pain or inflammation, or to lower the risk of blood clots in certain situations. Always talk to your doctor before using aspirin, especially if you have a blood cancer, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

Who Should take it

Aspirin is used for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains, such as those from arthritis, headaches, muscle pain, menstrual pain, toothaches, and the pain and fever of colds. In some cases, your doctor may recommend aspirin to help prevent blood clots, especially if you are at risk for heart disease or stroke.

If you have a blood cancer, your doctor will decide if aspirin is right for you based on your specific situation. Never start or stop aspirin without your doctor's advice, as it can affect your bleeding risk.

Who should not take it

You should not take aspirin if you are allergic to aspirin or any other pain reliever/fever reducer. Do not use aspirin if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or its ingredients. Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chicken pox or flu-like symptoms should not use aspirin due to the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness.

People with a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding problems, certain liver or kidney diseases, or those taking blood thinners or steroid drugs should talk to their doctor before using aspirin. Pregnant women, especially after 20 weeks, should avoid aspirin unless specifically directed by a doctor.

Commonly used with

Aspirin may be used with other medications for pain relief, such as acetaminophen, but always under the guidance of a doctor. In certain heart or blood clot prevention regimens, it may be used with other blood thinners, but this increases the risk of bleeding and should only be done if prescribed by your doctor.

Commonly tested with

Aspirin is often studied in combination with other blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, especially in the context of heart disease or clot prevention. In blood cancer patients, it may be tested with other supportive care medications to manage pain or reduce clot risk, but always under close medical supervision.