A daily low dose is used to prevent blood cells (platelets) clumping together in the arteries. This reduces the risk of having a heart attack or a stroke. Aspirin is taken in higher doses as a painkiller.

There are the following two types of aspirin.

• Dispersible aspirin, which should be completely dissolved in water before taking.
• Enteric-coated aspirin, which must be swallowed whole. This may be useful if dispersible aspirin gives you indigestion.

• Indigestion, stomach pains or an upset stomach. Taking aspirin with or after food helps to reduce these side effects.
• Shortness of breath or wheezing. If you have either of these side effects, go to see your GP.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea. If you have either of these side effects, go to see your GP.

Many other painkillers, and cold and flu remedies, which you can buy from a chemist, also contain aspirin. Before you buy any medicines you must tell your pharmacist you are taking aspirin. You can use paracetamol as a painkiller, and it is safe to take with aspirin.