Abstract
* Health care providers should warn patients about the potential risk of severe bleeding from over-the-counter antacid products containing aspirin. Bleeding can occur even when the product is used appropriately.
* Risk factors for bleeding include taking excessive daily doses of the antacids; having a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding; taking anticoagulants, steroids, or other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs; being 60 years of age or older; and having three or more alcoholic drinks per day.