Aspirin Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 14, 2024.

Applies to aspirin: rectal suppository.

Other dosage forms:

• oral capsule extended release 24 hr, oral capsule liquid filled, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable, oral tablet enteric coated

Serious side effects of aspirin

Along with its needed effects, aspirin may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking aspirin:

Incidence not known

• nausea and vomiting
• seizures

For healthcare professionals

Applies to aspirin: compounding powder, oral capsule, oral capsule extended release, oral delayed release capsule, oral delayed release tablet, oral gum, oral powder for reconstitution, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable, oral tablet disintegrating, oral tablet dispersible, oral tablet extended release, rectal suppository.

General adverse events

The more commonly experienced adverse effects include indigestion, dyspepsia, bleeding, and bruising.^[Ref]

Renal

• Frequency not reported: Interstitial nephritis, papillary necrosis, renal insufficiency and failure^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Increased bleeding tendencies
• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Aplastic anemia agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia
• Frequency not reported: Prolongation of prothrombin time, disseminated intravascular coagulation, coagulopathy, antepartum and postpartum bleeding, anemia^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Anaphylactic reactions including shock
• Frequency not reported: Urticaria, angioedema, skin rashes^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Urticaria
• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Steven-Johnson syndrome, Lyell's syndrome, erythema nodosum, erythema multiforme
• Frequency not reported: Purpura, hives^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Frequency not reported: Transient elevations of hepatic enzymes, hepatitis, Reye's syndrome, hepatic insufficiency^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Frequency not reported: Thirst, dehydration, hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, respiratory alkalosis, hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, hyperuricemia, salt and water retention^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Hemorrhagic vasculitis
• Frequency not reported: Dysrhythmias, hypotension, tachycardia^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Cerebral edema, coma headache, subdural or intracranial hemorrhage, seizures, lethargy, dizziness^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Fever, hypothermia, hearing loss, tinnitus (at high doses), hearing disturbances^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Frequency not reported: Rhabdomyolysis^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Hyperpnea, pulmonary edema, tachypnea, epistaxis, dyspnea, bronchospasm, asthma^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Dyspepsia,
• Frequency not reported: GI bleeding, ulceration, perforation, nausea, vomiting, pancreatitis, gastric irritation, GI erosions, gastritis, melena, hematemesis, gingival bleeding^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Menorrhagia
• Frequency not reported: Proteinuria^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Agitation, confusion^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• What's the difference between aspirin and ibuprofen?
• Can you take tramadol with acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin?
• What temperature is considered a fever?
• Aspirin Overdose: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Emergency Treatment
• Which painkiller should you use?
• Can I give Aspirin to my dog or cat?
• Can you take ibuprofen with Excedrin Migraine?

Further information

Aspirin side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer