Salicylates Level

This test measures the amount of salicylates in the blood. Salicylates are a type of drug found in many over-the-counter and prescription medicines. These can include: Aspirin, which is a common pain reliever; Bismuth subsalicylate, which is used to treat diarrhea, heartburn, and upset stomach; Magnesium salicylate, which is used to treat pain; Methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen), which is which is most often found in creams to treat muscle pain; Aspirin is the most common type of salicylate.

It is used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. Popular brand name aspirins include Bayer and Ecotrin. Some other medicines may also contain aspirin, including some antacids, pain relievers, and cough and cold medicines.

Aspirin and other salicylates affect blood clotting. A blood clot is a mass of blood that forms when platelets, proteins, and cells in the blood stick together. Blood clotting is an important process that prevents you from losing too much blood when you get injured.

But too much blood clotting can cause a heart attack or stroke. People at risk for blood clots may be advised to take baby aspirin or other low-dose aspirin every day to help prevent dangerous blood clots. Even though it's called baby aspirin, it should not be given to children or teens unless your health care provider tells you to.

For these age groups, taking aspirin when they have a viral infection can cause a life-threatening disorder called Reye syndrome. Aspirin and other salicylates are usually safe and effective for adults when taken at the proper dose. However, if you take too much, it can cause a serious and sometimes fatal condition called aspirin or salicylate or poisoning.

Check with your provider before taking medicines containing salicylates for more than ten days.

Why this test is done

You may need this test if it's possible that you have acute poisoning from aspirin or other salicylates. The symptoms of acute poisoning usually happen three to eight hours after an overdose. The symptoms can vary, based on the amount of salicylates in your blood and whether you are an adult, teenager, or child.

But the symptoms often include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid breathing (hyperventilation)
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Sweating

You may also need this test if you have symptoms of gradual poisoning from aspirin or other salicylates. The symptoms may take days or weeks to show up and can include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Confusion
• Hallucinations

If you think you or your child has taken too much aspirin or other salicylates, call your provider right away. If you notice symptoms of aspirin poisoning, call 911 or the poison control center, or go to the nearest emergency room. Early treatment can prevent damage to your organs or death.

How to prepare

If you regularly take aspirin or other salicylate, you may need to stop taking it for at least four hours before your test. Your provider will let you know if there are any other special instructions to follow.

Sample type

Blood

Other names for this test

acetylsalicylic acid level test, salicylate serum test, aspirin level test