Aspirin
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Aspirin Use in Myocardial Infarctions
How Aspirin Works
Understanding its Mechanism of Action
Thromboxane A2 Blocker: Aspirin inhibits the formation of thromboxane A2, preventing platelet aggregation and reducing clot formation.
Benefits in Myocardial Infarctions
Reducing Mortality and Re-infarction Risk
Usage: Administer a single 300-milligram tablet in suspected myocardial infarctions.
Chew and Swallow: The tablet should be chewed and swallowed.
Safe Usage
Considerations and Potential Risks
- Appropriate Dosage: Typically a 300-milligram tablet.
- Antiplatelet Action: Acts as an antiplatelet agent to reduce clot formation.
- Safe for Various Conditions: Benefits outweigh risks; can be given to patients with asthma, kidney or liver failure, ulcers, or those on anticoagulants.
- Safe for Pregnant Women: Considered safe for pregnant ladies.
Side Effects and Contraindications
Understanding Risks and Who Should Avoid It
Side Effects: Gastric bleeding and potential wheezing in asthmatics.
- Contraindications: Do not administer to those with aspirin allergies, children under 16, patients with active gastrointestinal bleeding, haemophilia, blood clotting disorders, or hepatic disease.
- Reye's Syndrome Risk: Contraindicated in children under 16 due to the rare risk of Reye's syndrome, a condition with a high mortality rate affecting the liver and brain.