Overview
Ecotrin is a coated aspirin tablet used mainly as a pain reliever. It contains aspirin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), that helps temporarily relieve minor aches and pains associated with various conditions. This regular strength formulation is taken orally and designed for adults and children 12 years and older.
What is it used for?
Ecotrin is indicated to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains due to:
- minor arthritis pain
- headache
- toothache
- menstrual pain
- muscle pain
- colds
It is intended for use by adults and children 12 years and older unless otherwise directed by a doctor.
Active ingredients
Aspirin
How it works
Aspirin, the active ingredient in Ecotrin, belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain, fever, and inflammation, providing relief from minor aches and pains.
Dosage and administration
Adults and children 12 years and older: Take 1 to 2 coated tablets orally every 4 hours while symptoms last. Do not exceed 12 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by a healthcare professional.
Children under 12 years: Consult a doctor before use.
Administration: Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Contraindications
Do not use Ecotrin if you have had a previous allergic reaction to aspirin or any other pain reliever/fever reducer.
Warnings and precautions
Reye’s syndrome: Do not use Ecotrin in children or teenagers who have or are recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms due to risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition. If behavior changes with nausea or vomiting occur, seek medical advice immediately.
Allergic reactions: Aspirin may cause severe allergic reactions including hives, facial swelling, shock, or asthma attacks.
Stomach bleeding warning: Ecotrin contains an NSAID that may cause severe stomach bleeding, especially if you are 60 or older, have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, take blood thinners or steroids, consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, or take more than directed.
Other risk factors include having heart disease, high blood pressure, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, diabetes, gout, arthritis, or taking diuretics.
Stop use and seek medical help if you experience fainting, vomiting blood, bloody or black stools, persistent stomach pain, worsening pain or fever, new symptoms, or ringing/loss of hearing—all signs of serious conditions.
Pregnancy: Avoid use at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless directed by a doctor due to possible harm to the unborn child or delivery complications.
Overdose: Seek emergency medical help or contact Poison Control immediately if an overdose is suspected.
Side effects
Common side effects may include stomach discomfort and mild gastrointestinal irritation. Serious side effects include symptoms of stomach bleeding such as vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, or persistent stomach pain. Allergic reactions may manifest as hives, facial swelling, wheezing, or shock.
Drug interactions
Concurrent use with other blood thinners, steroids, or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) increases the risk of stomach bleeding. Alcohol consumption (3 or more drinks daily) while taking Ecotrin also raises bleeding risk.
Consult a healthcare provider before use if you are taking prescription drugs for diabetes, gout, or arthritis.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Avoid use starting at 20 weeks of pregnancy unless your doctor directs otherwise due to risks to the unborn child and potential delivery complications.
Breastfeeding: Ask a healthcare professional before use.
Overdose information
Symptoms of overdose may include stomach pain, vomiting, ringing in the ears, or other serious effects. Immediate medical attention is required. Contact Poison Control or emergency services right away.
Storage
Store Ecotrin tablets at controlled room temperature around 25ºC (77ºF), with permitted excursions between 15º–30ºC (59º–86ºF).
Manufacturer(s)
Medical references
- U.S. National Library of Medicine – DailyMed
- Official prescribing information
- Other authoritative medical references, where applicable
References are used to support the medical information presented on this page.
Medical information disclaimer
The information on WikiDrug is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about medication use.
Last updated November 6, 2026