Properties
What is it?
Mechanism of Action and Clinical Pharmacology ASA inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in various organs and tissues by acetylating the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase. Prostaglandins are potent irritants themselves and cause headache and pain during injection. Prostaglandins also increase the sensitivity of pain receptors to histamine and bradykinin. By suppressing the synthesis and release of prostaglandins during inflammation, ASA limits the sensitivity of pain receptors. ASA's antipyretic effect is due to its ability to suppress the production of prostaglandin E1 in the brain. Prostaglandin E1 is one of the most potent pyretic agents. Indications and Clinical Use Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is indicated for the relief of fever, mild to moderate pain in various conditions such as pain, cold, flu, headache, arthritis or rheumatism, migraine, menstrual pain, during or after dental procedures, toothache, muscle and tendon strain. ASAPHEN 80 mg chewable is indicated for the relief of mild to moderate pain and fever. ASAPHEN E.C. 80 mg in children is used only for rheumatic and arthritic pain, under medical supervision. Contraindications Hypersensitivity to salicylic acid, active peptic ulcer disease. Symptoms and Treatment of Overdose Symptoms of mild overdose may include rapid and deep breathing, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, tinnitus, flushing, sweating, thirst, and dry tachycardia. In more severe cases, acid-base disturbances may occur, including respiratory alkalosis and metabolic acidosis. In serious cases, fever, bleeding, agitation, confusion, convulsions or coma, and respiratory failure may occur. Treatment includes prevention and management of acid-base and electrolyte disturbances. Renal clearance is increased by increased urine output and alkaline diuresis, but care must be taken not to deepen metabolic acidosis and hypokalemia. Acidification should be avoided with fluids containing sodium and sodium bicarbonate. Salicylate overdose can cause hypoglycemia and can be managed with glucose solutions. If hemorrhagic diathesis is evident, administer vitamin K. Hemodialysis may be beneficial in severe acid-base disturbances, especially with impaired renal function. Dosage and Administration Analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory action ASAPHEN: Children: Under 2 years: As directed by a physician; (ASAPHEN E.C. 80 mg dosage as directed by a physician. Considering the above indications): Dosage in children: Under 6 years: As directed by a physician. Pharmacological Information Medicinal Product Name: Acetylsalicylic Acid Chemical Name: 2-(acetyloxy)benzoic acid; salicylic acid acetate. Structure: Molecular Formula: C9H8O4 Molecular Weight: 180.16 g/mol Physical and Chemical Properties Description: White granules, usually tubular or needle-like, or white crystalline powder. Odorless or with a faint odor. Solubility: Sparingly soluble in water; freely soluble in alcohol; soluble in chloroform and ether; slightly soluble in absolute ether. pKa value (25°C): 3.49 Melting point: 135°C (rapid heating) Composition ASAPHEN® Each chewable tablet contains 80 mg of acetylsalicylic acid as the active ingredient. Excipients: DC Yellow #10, FDC Red #40, Mannitol, Orange flavor, Pregelatinized starch, Sodium saccharin, Stearic acid. ASAPHEN® E.C. 80 mg Each tablet contains 80 mg of acetylsalicylic acid as the active ingredient.