Ecotrin: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use it

Use

What is the function of Ecotrin?

Ecotrin is a medication commonly used to reduce fever and relieve mild to moderate pain caused by conditions such as muscle aches, toothaches, the common cold, menstrual pain, and headaches. This medication can also be used to treat pain and inflammation in some conditions such as arthritis. Ecotrin is also sometimes used to treat or prevent heart attacks, strokes, and chest pain (angina). Aspirin can only be used for cardiovascular conditions under a doctor's supervision.

Ecotrin may be prescribed for other functions; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How do you use Ecotrin?

Available in tablet form to take by mouth, with or without food, swallow the tablet with a glass of water.

Ask the doctor any questions you want to know about how to take this drug.

How to store Ecotrin?

Ecotrin is best stored at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Warning

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What should I pay attention to before using Ecotrin?

Consult your doctor or pharmacist if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because, when you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only take drugs recommended by your doctor.
• You are taking other drugs. This includes drugs that can be purchased without a prescription, such as herbs and additional medicines.
• You have a history of stomach or intestinal bleeding: bleeding disorders such as hemophilia
• You have had an asthma attack or severe allergies after taking aspirin or NSAIDs such as Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Orudis, Indocin, Lodine, Voltaren, Toradol, Mobic, Relafen, Feldene, and others.

Ecotrin should not be given to children or adolescents who have a fever, especially if the child has flu or smallpox symptoms. Ecotrin can cause a serious or fatal condition called Reye's syndrome in children.

Is Ecotrin safe for pregnant and lactating women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or nursing women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category D in the 3rd trimester according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

FDA pregnancy risk categories:

• A = Not at risk,
• B = not at risk in several studies,
• C = May be risky,
• D = There is positive evidence of risk,
• X = Contraindicated,
• N = Unknown

Ecotrin and metabolism absorb into breast milk in small quantities. Since no adverse effects on the infant are observed after use, interruptions during breastfeeding are usually unnecessary. However, with regular use or high doses, breastfeeding should be stopped immediately.

Always consult your doctor first about using Ecotrin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side effects

What are the possible side effects of Ecotrin?

This list is not a complete list of the side effects that can occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Ecotrin can cause side effects such as:

• Signs of an allergic reaction: itching; difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Stool that is black, bloody, or soft
• Coughing up blood or vomiting like coffee grounds
• Nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain
• Fever for more than 3 days
• Hearing problems, ringing in the ears

Less serious side effects such as:

• Stomach ache, ulcer
• Drowsiness
• Headache

Drug Interactions

What medicines should not be taken with Ecotrin?

Ecotrin can react with other drugs that you are taking, which can change how your medication works or increase your risk of serious side effects. To avoid any drug reactions, you should keep a list of all the medicines you take (including prescription and non-prescription drugs and herbal products) and tell your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without your doctor's approval.

This product may interact with Ecotrin:

• Mifepristone
• Acetazolamide
• Blood thinners (such as warfarin, heparin)
• Corticosteroids (such as prednisone), methotrexate, valproic acid
• Herbal remedies such as gingko biloba

Are there foods and drinks that should not be consumed when using Ecotrin?

Ecotrin may interact with food or alcohol by changing the way drugs work or increasing the risk of serious side effects. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about food or alcohol that could potentially cause drug interactions.

Dose

The following information cannot be used as a substitute for a doctor's prescription. You MUST consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Ecotrin.

What is the dose of Ecotrin for adults?

Ecotrin 81 mg

• Usual dosage: 4-8 tablets every 4 hours when symptoms appear

• Maximum dose: 48 tablets / 24 hours

Ecotrin 325 mg

• Usual dosage: 1-2 tablets every 4 hours when symptoms appear
• Maximum dose: 12 tablets / 24 hours

What is the dose of Ecotrin for children?

The dosage for children has not been determined. May be a danger to your child. It is very important to always know the safety of drugs before taking them. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

In what forms is Ecotrin available?

Ecotrin is available in the following dosages and strengths:

• Ecotrin Safety Coated 325 mg
• Ecotrin Safety Coated 81 mg

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (119) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

It is very important to carry a written list of all the prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking in the event of an emergency.

What should I do if I forget to take / take medicine?

If you forget a dose of Ecotrin, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.