Acetylsalicylic acid

Synonyms

Acesal; o-Acetoxybenzoic acid; 2-Acetoxybenzoic acid; Aspirin

Category

Pharmaceuticals

Description

Odorless, colorless to white, crystal-line powder. [aspirin] [Note: Develops the vinegar-like odor of acetic acid on contact with moisture.]

Sources/Uses

Used in manufacturing and health care; [ACGIH TLVs and BEIs]

Comments

Aspirin poisoning was one of the leading causes of accidental death in children until child-proof bottles were developed; After ingestion, causes stimulation of respiratory center in brain and metabolic acidosis; Prolongs prothrombin time and complicated by cerebral and pulmonary edema; 1 aspirin tablet = 325-650 mg acetylsalicylic acid; 1 teaspoon concentrated oil of wintergreen = 5 g of methyl salicylate (equivalent to 7.5 g of acetylsalicylic acid); Acute ingestion of 150-200 mg/kg aspirin = mild intoxication; Acute ingestion of 300-500 mg/kg aspirin = severe intoxication; [Olson, p. 410-11] TLV Basis = Bleeding and respiratory sensitization. "An oral dose of 30mg/person of ASA (0.45 mg/kg per day) given daily for 3 weeks resulted in a significant prolongation of bleeding time (1.6 times control values) . . . ASA is a known respiratory and systemic allergen in humans, which may result in an anaphylactic phenomenon known as aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD). It can occur at oral doses as low as 81 mg daily." [ACGIH TLVs and BEIs]

Reference Link #1

Biomedical References

Yes

0.3 mg/m3

Yes

Not Classifiable

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Asthma, occupational