aspirin (rectal)
What is the most important information I should know about rectal aspirin?
Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.
What is rectal aspirin?
Aspirin is a salicylate.
Rectal aspirin (for use in the rectum) is used to treat fever or to relieve minor aches, pains, and headaches.
Rectal aspirin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using rectal aspirin?
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to aspirin or an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib, diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and others.
Do not give rectal aspirin to a child younger than 12 years old without medical advice. Using this medicine in a child or teenager with flu symptoms or chickenpox can cause a serious or fatal condition called Reye's syndrome.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:
- bleeding problems;
- asthma, or a severe allergic reaction (sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, wheezing) after taking aspirin or another NSAID;
- a stomach ulcer or bleeding; or
- kidney disease.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Using aspirin during late pregnancy may cause bleeding in the mother or the baby during delivery.
How should I use rectal aspirin?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not take by mouth. Rectal medicine is for use only in the rectum.
Read and follow all Instructions for Use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need help.
Remove the wrapper before inserting a suppository.
Lie on your back with your knees bent. Gently insert the suppository into your rectum as far as possible, pointed tip first.
Stay lying down for a few minutes. You should feel no discomfort while the suppository melts. Avoid using the bathroom for at least an hour.
Do not use this medicine for longer than 10 days. Call your doctor if you still have a fever after 3 days, if you still have pain after 10 days, or if you have any redness, swelling or new symptoms.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using rectal aspirin.
Tell your doctor if you have a planned surgery.
Store suppositories at cool room temperature or in a refrigerator.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Rectal aspirin is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if anyone has swallowed the medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include headache, severe drowsiness, thirst, vomiting, breathing problems, hallucinations, muscle twitching, or seizure.
What should I avoid while using rectal aspirin?
Ask your doctor before using rectal aspirin if you take an antidepressant. Taking certain antidepressants with an NSAID may cause you to bruise or bleed easily.
Drinking alcohol may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.
Ask a pharmacist before using over-the-counter medicines that may contain ingredients similar to aspirin (such as ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen).
What are the possible side effects of rectal aspirin?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using rectal aspirin and call your doctor at once if you have:
- easy bruising or bleeding;
- wheezing, chest tightness, cough, runny or stuffy nose;
- ringing in your ears, hearing loss;
- dizziness, confusion; or
- stomach bleeding --bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Common serious side effects may include rectal irritation.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect rectal aspirin?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using rectal aspirin with any other medications, especially:
- medicine to treat gout or arthritis;
- diabetes medicine; or
- a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven).
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect rectal aspirin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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