How should I take aspirin low-dose?

Low-dose aspirin (sometimes referred to as baby aspirin) is aspirin that comes in 81-milligram (mg) tablets. It should be stored tightly closed, in the container it came in. Keep it away from moisture, heat, or sunlight. The hot, steamy air that pours out of the shower or bath when you start toweling off is as good for your aspirin as it would be for a polar bear. The best place to store it is in a room temperature, dry place that’s out of reach of the little ones. Anything small and round looks like candy to little kids, and some adults, too! Also, if your low-dose aspirin starts smelling like vinegar, even if it’s before the expiration date, don’t use it. Throw it out.

If you are taking aspirin low-dose regularly to reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke, you should take this medication exactly as your doctor recommends. This is typically one 81 milligram (mg.) tablet per day. You should take aspirin low-dose with food or after meals. If you are also taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, take the NSAID either eight hours before or 30 minutes after the aspirin. You should not take aspirin low-dose with alcohol, as this increases the risk of side effects such as stomach bleeding.