the course of a nerve or nerves), myalgia (muscle pain), arthralgia (joint pain), and
other pains arising from integumental structures. It is also useful in relieving the
discomfort of dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), sore throat, toothache, and
influenza. It is an effective anti-inflammatory agent for acute rheumatic fever,
rheumatoid arthritis, and degenerative joint disease. It is an effective antipyretic agent.
Uricosuric effects (excretion of uric acid) may be achieved with daily doses of 5-6
grams.
b. Usual Dosage. The usual adult oral dose is 0.3-1.0 gm, 4-6 times a day, as
necessary.
c. Adverse Effects. Irritation of the gastric mucosa is common. Peptic
ulceration, blood loss sufficient to cause iron-deficiency anemia, and massive
gastrointestinal hemorrhage occur rarely. Dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, and occult
bleeding are the most common adverse effects with ordinary doses. During therapy
with large doses of salicylates for prolonged periods, salicylism may occur; it is
characterized by nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, decrease in auditory acuity, dizziness,
sweating, thirst, and confusion. A small number of clients are hypersensitive to aspirin,
and ordinary doses may cause skin eruptions, urticaria, or asthmatic-type anaphylactoid
reactions.
d. Overdosage. Serious intoxication usually follows the ingestion of at least 1
grain per pound of body weight (about 150-175 mg/kg). Toxicity is characterized by
hyperthermia, CNS stimulation followed by depression and coma, acid-base
disturbances, hypoprothrombinemia, and gastroenteritis. Respiratory alkalosis appears
first, followed by metabolic acidosis. The minimum lethal dose (M.L.D.) is 5-10 grams.
e. Treatment of Overdosage.
(1)
Obtain a blood pH to determine acid-base balance.
(2)
Treat dehydration and alkalosis with normal saline and potassium as
indicated.
(3) Metabolic acidosis can be corrected with fluids and adequate sodium
bicarbonate as determined by blood pH.
(4)
Perform gastric lavage if client is received within 4 hours after ingestion.
(5)
Vitamin K, 50 mg IV, should be administered for hypothrobinemia.
(6)
Treat fever with tepid water sponge baths.
(7)
Short-acting barbiturates should be given cautiously, if convulsions
occur.
MD0913
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