Harmful effects of "aspirin compounds".

"Aspirin" is the most widely used medication which is considered to be safe and effective, and which can be obtained universally without prescription. A review of the literature and clinical experience reveal that many complications can be attributed to the prolonged use of it. Some of these complications involve damage to various tissues and organs (particularly the gastric mucosa, the renal papilla, red blood cells, and the inner ear) and to coagulation and body temperature control. Hemorrhagic gastritis may result with as little as 600 mg. of salicylate four times a day for 5 days. Papillitis of the renal system may result from a comparable dosage of aspirin compound mediates with phenacetin. The purpose of this article has been to call attention to some of the important complications which may result from salicylate abuse. It is hoped that many of these complications may be avoided by proper and effective indoctrination of patients to the hazards associated with prolonged or indiscriminate intake of salicylates.