Aspirin and Fatigue: What to Know and How to Cope

Yes, aspirin can be associated with tiredness (fatigue) in some people, although it’s not among the most common side effects. Reputable clinical drug references list “unusual drowsiness, dullness, tiredness, weakness, or feeling of sluggishness” as possible effects, with frequency not well defined. ^[1] These sources also include “general tiredness and weakness” among symptoms that warrant medical attention when they occur with other warning signs. ^[2]

Is fatigue a known side effect of aspirin?

• Unusual tiredness and sluggishness are reported side effects with an unknown incidence. This means they occur, but exact rates aren’t well quantified. ^[1]
• General tiredness and weakness can appear alongside other serious symptoms (for example, chest discomfort, fainting, breathing difficulty), which should prompt urgent evaluation. ^[2]
• Aspirin can also cause drowsiness in some cases, which may be perceived as fatigue. ^[2]

Why might aspirin make someone feel fatigued?

• Dose-related effects: Higher doses are more likely to cause systemic side effects, including drowsiness and weakness. ^[2]
• Bleeding or anemia risk: Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and increase bleeding risk; if occult bleeding occurs, it may lead to anemia, which often causes fatigue. ^[3] If black or tarry stools or vomiting blood occur, seek immediate care. ^[2]
• Hearing symptoms (tinnitus) and malaise can co‑occur at higher doses, which some people experience as overall low energy. ^{[4] [2]}

When to seek medical attention

• Get urgent help if fatigue is accompanied by red‑flag symptoms such as black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, chest pain, fainting, confusion, difficulty breathing, or marked decrease in urination. ^[2]
• Stop aspirin and contact a clinician if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising or persistent fatigue with weakness, swelling, or yellowing of the eyes/skin. ^{[5] [6]}

Practical ways to cope with aspirin‑related fatigue

• Check your dose and timing: Using the lowest effective dose can reduce side effects; avoid taking multiple NSAIDs together unless advised. ^[3]
• Hydration and nutrition: Dehydration and poor intake can worsen tiredness; aim for regular fluids and balanced meals unless you are on restrictions. ^[7]
• Short, planned rest breaks: Brief naps (about 15–20 minutes) can ease daytime fatigue without disrupting nighttime sleep. ^[8]
• Gentle activity: Light, regular movement (like walking) may improve energy more than prolonged bed rest. ^[7]
• Review other medicines: Combining drugs that increase bleeding risk (e.g., anticoagulants or steroids) raises the chance of complications that can manifest as fatigue. Discuss with your clinician or pharmacist. ^[3]
• Monitor for stomach symptoms: Heartburn, sour stomach, or abdominal pain can signal irritation; persistent symptoms merit medical review. ^[1]
• Do not drive or operate machinery while feeling very tired or drowsy. Safety first until symptoms resolve. ^[7]

Who may be more vulnerable

• Adults over 60, people with ulcers or prior bleeding, and those on blood thinners or steroids have a higher risk of stomach bleeding and potential downstream fatigue from anemia. ^[3]
• People taking high, repeated doses for pain or inflammation are more likely to experience systemic side effects like drowsiness or weakness. ^[2]

Alternatives and medication review

• If aspirin is for pain or fever, your clinician may suggest a different option or protective strategies (like adding a stomach protector) depending on your health profile. ^[3]
• If aspirin is for heart protection (low‑dose), do not stop it on your own; instead, report fatigue and other symptoms so your clinician can assess for causes such as anemia, thyroid issues, sleep problems, or interactions. ^[2]

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Summary Table: Fatigue and Aspirin

Topic	Key Points
Aspirin and fatigue	Unusual tiredness, drowsiness, weakness, or sluggishness can occur; incidence not well defined. [1]
Red‑flag symptoms	Black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, chest pain, fainting, confusion, breathing trouble, marked drop in urination warrant urgent care. [2]
Risk factors	Age ≥60, prior ulcers/bleeding, use of anticoagulants/steroids, multiple NSAIDs increase bleeding risk. [3]
Coping tips	Lowest effective dose, hydration, brief naps, gentle activity, review drug interactions, monitor stomach symptoms, avoid driving when very tired. [3] [8] [1] [7]

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Bottom line

Aspirin can sometimes cause fatigue or drowsiness, and in some cases fatigue may signal a complication like stomach bleeding or anemia. Paying attention to dose, other medications, and associated warning signs helps you stay safe, and persistent or severe tiredness should be discussed with a healthcare professional. ^{[1] [2] [3]}