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Fact Table
| Fact Table | |
|---|---|
| Formula | C9H8O4 |
| License | U.S. FDA OTC Monograph M013; long-established over-the-counter drug; some prescription aspirin formulations are NDA-approved |
| Bioavailability | Approximately 50% for acetylsalicylic acid after oral dosing; variable by formulation due presystemic hydrolysis and enteric coating |
| Legal status | Over-the-counter (OTC) for many oral products; prescription only for certain formulations/uses |
| Chemical Name | 2-acetyloxybenzoic acid; acetylsalicylic acid |
| Elimination half-life | Aspirin ~15–60 minutes; salicylate ~2–3 hours at low doses and longer at higher/toxic doses |
| Dosage (Strength) | Common strengths include 81 mg, 162 mg, 325 mg, and 500 mg tablets/caplets/chewables/enteric-coated tablets; adult OTC analgesic dosing commonly 325–650 mg every 4 hours or 975 mg every 6 hours, max 4 g/day; antiplatelet dosing commonly 75–100 mg once daily |
| Pregnancy | Avoid regular-strength aspirin/NSAID use at 20 weeks or later unless specifically directed; low-dose aspirin may be used in pregnancy when recommended by a healthcare professional |
| Brands | Bayer Aspirin, Ecotrin, St. Joseph, Bufferin, Vazalore, Durlaza; generics available |
| Protein binding | Salicylate ~50–90%, concentration dependent; commonly cited therapeutic range ~80–90% |
| PubChem CID | 2244 |
| MedlinePlus | a682878 |
| ChEBI | 15365 |
| ATC code | A01AD05; B01AC06; N02BA01 |
| DrugBank | DB00945 |
| KEGG | D00109; C01405 |
| Routes of administration | By mouth; rectal suppository in some markets |
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is an over-the-counter pain reliever used to temporarily reduce minor aches, pains, and fever. It works by blocking natural substances in the body that cause pain, swelling, and fever. It can be used for headaches, muscle pain, toothaches, menstrual pain, minor arthritis pain, and cold-related symptoms. Low-dose aspirin tablets (81 mg) may be used under a healthcare provider’s direction to help reduce the risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke, rather than for pain or fever relief.
Directions
Adults and children aged 12 years and older can take aspirin 325 mg tablets in a dose of 1 to 2 tablets every 4 hours or 3 tablets every 6 hours with a full glass of water, but should not take more than 12 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor. Aspirin 81 mg tablets are typically taken once daily or as directed by a doctor. Children under 12 years old, and anyone under 18 with a viral illness, should not use aspirin unless directed by a doctor.
Ingredients
The active ingredient is aspirin. Inactive ingredients may include corn starch, hypromellose, powdered cellulose, and triacetin.
Cautions
Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications currently being taken
Aspirin may cause severe stomach bleeding, especially in people aged 60 or older, those with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, and those taking blood thinners, steroids, or other NSAIDs.
Aspirin should not be used at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless directed by a doctor, as it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.
People with a history of high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, or asthma should consult a doctor before use.
This product should not be taken with other products that contain aspirin or other NSAIDs unless directed by a doctor.
Alcohol use, defined as three or more drinks per day, may increase the risk of stomach bleeding when taking this product.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:
- Known allergy to aspirin
- Known allergy to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs
- History of certain bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia
- Children or teenagers who have or are recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms, due to the risk of Reye's syndrome
Side Effects
Common side effects of aspirin include:
- Stomach upset or discomfort
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus
Serious side effects are rare but can include signs of stomach bleeding, such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, or passing bloody or black stools.
An allergic reaction may include hives, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or shock.
Stop using aspirin and seek medical help immediately if any of these symptoms occur.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zovirax Cream 5%
What is Zovirax Cream 5%?
Zovirax Cream 5% is a prescription topical antiviral medicine containing acyclovir. Each gram contains 50 mg of acyclovir, equal to 5% strength. It is used on the skin to treat recurrent cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus.
What is Zovirax Cream used for?
Zovirax Cream is used to treat recurring cold sores, also called herpes labialis, on the lips and around the mouth in adults and adolescents 12 years and older with normal immune systems. It is not a cure for cold sores and does not remove the virus from the body.
How does Zovirax Cream work?
Acyclovir works by interfering with herpes simplex virus DNA replication, which helps slow viral activity in the treated area. When started early, it may help shorten the duration of a cold sore episode.
How should Zovirax Cream be applied?
Zovirax Cream is usually applied to the affected area 5 times per day for 4 days. The area should be clean and dry, and the cream should cover the cold sore area, including the outer edge. Hands should be washed before and after application.
When should treatment be started?
Zovirax Cream works best when started as early as possible, such as when tingling, itching, redness, burning, or the first sign of a cold sore appears. Starting later may be less effective.
Can Zovirax Cream be used inside the mouth, nose, eyes, or on genital herpes?
No. Zovirax Cream is for external use only on cold sores of the lips and face. It should not be used in the eyes, inside the mouth or nose, on mucous membranes, or on genital herpes.
What are the common side effects of Zovirax Cream?
Common local side effects may include dry or cracked lips, peeling or flaking skin, skin dryness, burning, stinging, itching, irritation, or application-site reactions. Contact sensitivity or irritation can occur.
Who should not use Zovirax Cream?
Zovirax Cream should not be used by anyone with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to acyclovir, valacyclovir, or any ingredient in the cream. People with weakened immune systems should tell a healthcare professional before use because its effect has not been established in immunocompromised patients.
Can Zovirax Cream be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
People who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding should discuss use with a healthcare professional. The patient labeling notes that it is not known whether Zovirax Cream can harm an unborn baby or whether it passes into breast milk.
How should Zovirax Cream be stored?
Zovirax Cream should be stored at room temperature, generally 68°F to 77°F, with permitted excursions between 59°F and 86°F. Keep the tube tightly closed and out of reach of children.
