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Ecotrin
Brand Name: Acetylsalicylic Acid, Acuprin, Bayer, Bufferin, Empirin
What is it?
Ecotrin is in the category of drugs referred to as salicylates. These types of drugs are used to relieve pain and in order to reduce a fever. They are also used to treat minor arthritis pain. In some cases, it is used to lessen a chance of a heart attack, stroke and other blood vessel related issues and ailments.
How to take it?
Ecotrin can be prescribed by your doctor based on a condition, however, some types of salicylates are available without a prescription, and can be bought over the counter. It comes in five forms: tablets, capsules, extended-release tablets, extended-release capsules, and chew tabs. Tablets and capsules should be taken with a full glass of water. Extended release tablets and capsules must be swallowed whole. Chew tabs can be chewed, crushed, or mixed with a drink or food. If you have a sensitive stomach then you should take with food or milk. This medication should be taken according to the recommended dosage and not more.
Warnings and Precautions
If you are going to take this medication, your doctor needs to know if you have a history of heart, liver or kidney disease, stomach problems, gout, high blood pressure or anemia.
There are some drugs that can possibly interact with this medication. If you are taking acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, tenoxican, ketorolac, elodolac and dicolfenac, you need to advise your doctor.
If you are taking this medication for pain and that pain lasts more than ten days then you need to see your doctor. If you are taking this medication for a fever you should also pay special attention to how long the fever lasts, and if it returns them you should seek medical attention.
You should avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it can cause further damage to your stomach. If you smoke, this can also have an adverse affect on how this medication works, so be sure to tell your doctor if you do.
If you are going to have surgery, you should check with your doctor before taking. These types of drugs can interfere with the body’s ability to stop bleeding, and this could present a problem during and after surgery. You may be told that you can not take Ecotrin for up to a week or two after you have had surgery.
What should you do if you miss a dose?
If you are taking Ecotrin on just a needed basis, then missing a dose is not really an issue. You can take it as soon as you remember. If you are taking it to treat a certain condition, like arthritis, then take the missed dose as soon as your remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, take that dose only. Do not take any extra doses. This may be an over the counter medication, but it still can have negative side effects if not taken properly.
What are the side effects?
There are some side effects that this medication can bring on. Some of the common side effects include: diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and stomach gas. There are some side effects that are more severe and require immediate attention, these include confusion, difficulty breathing, unusual bleeding, redness, blistering, vomiting blood and skin rashes. If you are taking the prescription version, you should never stop taking the medication without first checking with your doctor.
How to store this medication?
This medication should be stored at room temperature, and away from excessive heat and moisture. Keep all medications away from children. You should never use any medication after its expiration date.
What does it look like?
Ecotrin is available over-the-counter or with a prescription. It comes in five forms: tablets, capsules, extended release tablets and capsules and chew tabs. It also comes in a range of doses. Your doctor will be able to prescribe the correct dosage for you if you are taking the prescription version of the medication. The doses for non-prescription usually range from 50mg to 100mg.
What if you overdose?
If you by chance take more than the recommended amount of this drug and overdose, contact poison control center immediately; along with your doctor.
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