Who can take low-dose aspirin
Most people aged 16 and over can take aspirin if a doctor recommends it.
Who may not be able to take low-dose aspirin
Low-dose aspirin is not suitable for some people.
It's sometimes called "baby aspirin" because of the small dose, but it's not safe for children. However, sometimes children may be prescribed low-dose aspirin after heart surgery or for a rare condition called Kawasaki disease.
There's a possible link between aspirin and Reye's syndrome in children. Reye's syndrome is a very rare condition that can cause serious liver and brain damage.
Important
Never give aspirin to children under 16, unless their doctor prescribes it.
To make sure aspirin as a painkiller (including mouth gel) is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you:
- have ever had an allergy to aspirin or similar painkillers such as ibuprofen
- have ever had a stomach ulcer
- have high blood pressure (hypertension)
- have indigestion
- have heavy periods – they can get heavier if you take aspirin daily
- recently had a stroke (low-dose aspirin is not suitable after some types of stroke)
- have asthma or lung disease
- have ever had a blood clotting problem
- have liver or kidney problems
- have gout – it can get worse for some people who take aspirin