ASPIRIN

IT WORKS similarly to ibuprofen, reducing the production of prostaglandins.

■ Brands: Aspro Clear, Disprin, Anadin.

■ Dose: One to three 300mg tablets every four hours. No more than 12 tablets – 3,600mg in total – in 24 hours.

PROS

■ Good for sore throats (right), headaches and alleviating flu symptoms as it lowers temperature and also joint pain.

■ Also available as an effervescent tablet.

CONS

■ Not suitable for under-16s to take.

■ Irritates the stomach lining so can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding.

■ Can cause thinning of the blood so not suitable for those on warfarin.

■ Can interact with certain prescription medicines and cause tinnitus if overused.

TOP TIP

IN LOWER doses, aspirin helps prevent clots that can cause stroke or heart attack. However, discuss with your GP before taking.