Salicylamide
Salicylamide is a mild analgesic and antipyretic medication belonging to the salicylate family, similar in structure to aspirin. It is used to relieve minor pain and reduce fever. The exact mechanism of action is not fully characterized, but it is believed to work through inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system.
Salicylamide is a mild pain reliever and fever reducer used for minor aches and discomfort.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N02BA05
- RxNorm
- 9518
- Generic
- Salicylamide
- Class
- atc-n02
- Brands
- Exaprin, Saleto, Frenadol, Anabar, Ed Flex, By Ache
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral, topical
- Forms
- tablet, capsule, powder, gel
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks to fetus
regular prenatal checkups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid
contraindicated near term due to risk of prolonged bleeding time and possible closure of ductus arteriosus
fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedinguse with caution
small amounts excreted in breast milk; monitor infant for signs of bleeding or salicylate toxicity
observe infant for unusual bruising bleeding or drowsiness
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 12weight-based dosing required
use with extreme caution; avoid in children with viral infections due to risk of Reyes syndrome
monitor for signs of salicylate toxicity vomiting tinnitus lethargy
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly over 65start with lower dose
use lowest effective dose for shortest duration; increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and renal impairment
monitor renal function and for signs of bleeding
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose
use with caution; may accumulate in renal impairment; avoid in severe renal failure
monitor renal function tests regularly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose
use with caution; metabolism may be impaired; avoid in severe hepatic impairment
monitor liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
alcohol_users
chronic alcohol consumptionavoid
concurrent use significantly increases risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and liver toxicity
monitor for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding and liver damage
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information
Drug class
Drug class information
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Common formulations
Often combined with acetaminophen, aspirin, or caffeine
Salicylamide is used for the relief of mild to moderate pain such as headaches, toothaches, and muscle aches, as well as for reducing fever associated with common illnesses like colds and flu.
As a salicylate derivative, salicylamide is thought to inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins that are involved in pain signaling and fever regulation.
Salicylamide may cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. It should be used with caution in patients with aspirin sensitivity, bleeding disorders, or those taking anticoagulant medications. It is not typically recommended for use in children with viral infections due to the potential risk of Reye's syndrome.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy