The use of non-prescription analgesics in an older population.
Older patients are frequent users of aspirin and acetaminophen, either recommended by physicians or self-prescribed, for the aches and pains that accompany aging. These mild analgesics provide effective pain relief when used appropriately. Aspirin and acetaminophen are equianalgesic on a milligram-for-milligram basis for most indications. Both are safe for most patients. Aspirin use may be associated with salicylate intoxication or salicylate interactions with other agents. There have been reports of an association of hepatotoxicity with acute massive overdosages of acetaminophen.
D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000009:adverse effects; D000368:Aged; D000700:Analgesics / Q000009:adverse effects; D001241:Aspirin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000506:poisoning; D001777:Blood Coagulation / Q000187:drug effects; D056486:Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / Q000209:etiology; D004347:Drug Interactions; D004363:Drug Utilization; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D006801:Humans; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects
D000700:Analgesics; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D000082:Acetaminophen; D001241:Aspirin