What is the antidote for aspirin toxicity?

• A. Sodium bicarbonate
• B. Activated charcoal
• C. N-acetylcysteine
• D. Flumazenil

Answer: (A)

The antidote for aspirin toxicity is sodium bicarbonate. This is because aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) can lead to metabolic acidosis and respiratory alkalosis, primarily due to increased production of acids as a result of its metabolism and subsequent renal excretion complications. Sodium bicarbonate acts as an alkalinizing agent, helping to correct metabolic acidosis and promoting the urinary excretion of salicylates by increasing their solubility. This enhanced elimination can mitigate the toxic effects of aspirin and facilitate recovery.

In contrast, activated charcoal is often used in acute poisoning situations to adsorb a variety of toxins if administered shortly after ingestion, but it does not specifically counteract aspirin toxicity. N-acetylcysteine is an antidote for acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose, not aspirin. Flumazenil is primarily used to reverse benzodiazepine overdoses and is not relevant for treating aspirin toxicity. Therefore, sodium bicarbonate is the most effective and clinically relevant choice to address the complications arising from aspirin overdose.