Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Potassium Aminosalicylate
Classification
Therapeutic: Anti-inflammatory, Disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)
Pharmacological: Salicylate derivative, potassium salt
FDA Approved Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis (off-label use sometimes)
Mechanism of Action
It exerts anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes and reducing prostaglandin synthesis, as well as modulating immune responses.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically 500 mg to 1 g orally 2-3 times daily, adjusted based on response and tolerability.
Pediatric: Use is not well established; consult a specialist.
Geriatric: Start at lower doses with careful monitoring due to potential renal or hepatic impairment.
Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be necessary; monitor renal function.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor hepatic function.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Orally absorbed with good bioavailability.
Distribution: Widely distributed in body water and tissues.
Metabolism: Metabolized minimally; primarily excreted unchanged.
Excretion: Renally excreted; monitor renal function.
Half Life: Approximately 2-4 hours.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to salicylates or salicylate-containing products.
- History of aspirin-sensitive asthma.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, bleeding disorders, or gastrointestinal ulcers.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting (Common)
- Allergic reactions (rash, urticaria) (Uncommon)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Salicylate toxicity, ringing in ears (tinnitus), hyperventilation (Rare)
- Gastrointestinal bleeding (Rare)
- Hepatotoxicity (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Enhances anticoagulants effect, increasing bleeding risk.
- Concomitant use with other NSAIDs increases GI risk.
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for signs of bleeding, gastrointestinal discomfort, and allergic reactions. Check renal and hepatic function periodically.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for bleeding,
- Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements.
Implementation: Administer with food to minimize GI irritation. Educate patient to report unusual bleeding or side effects.
Evaluation: Assess for reduction in symptoms and monitor for adverse effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Take medication with food or milk to reduce GI upset.
- Avoid concurrent use of other NSAIDs or blood thinners without consulting healthcare provider.
- Report signs of bleeding, tinnitus, or allergic reactions.
- Do not exceed prescribed dose.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Reye's syndrome risk in children and adolescents with viral infections — typically contraindicated in these populations.
Genetic Factors: N/A
Lab Test Interference: May affect bleeding parameters.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Tinnitus, nausea, vomiting, hyperventilation, lethargy, confusion, seizures.
Treatment: Supportive care, activated charcoal if early, alkalinization of urine, and symptomatic treatment. Hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, protected from moisture and light.
Stability: Stable when stored properly, check expiration date.