What Is a Lethal Dose of Aspirin?

What Is a Lethal Dose of Aspirin?

A potentially lethal dose of aspirin occurs at 500 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight or higher. Aspirin becomes toxic at 150 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight, as stated by Medline Plus.

When it comes to establishing a lethal dose of medication, such as aspirin, there are many things to consider. Lethality often depends on the age, weight and health of the person taking the drug. A dose that is toxic may still be survivable for many, especially with treatment.

Then there is the chronic toxicity of a medication that builds up in the body over time, like aspirin. This occurs when the dose taken over time is higher than the amount the body is able to break down, notes Medline Plus. Gradually, the medication builds up to toxic levels. Chronic toxicity can occur with aspirin when taking doses of over 100 milligrams per 2.2 pounds daily over the course of 2 or more days.

Aspirin is generally considered toxic at a single dose of 150 milligrams per 2.2 pounds or more. This means an adult taking this dose could potentially die if not treated. However, over 500 milligrams per 2.2 pounds. is severely life-threatening, which means that the patient may die even with treatment.

If considering suicide by aspirin overdose, contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255, 24 hours a day. Anyone who has taken a possible overdose of aspirin should seek medical care immediately.