Salicylates Level Test

Salicylates are a type of drug found in many over-the-counter and prescription medicines, including aspirin, bismuth subsalicylate, magnesium salicylate, and methyl salicylate.

This test is most often used to help diagnose acute or gradual aspirin or other salicylate poisoning, and to monitor people taking prescription-strength aspirin for arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

If your results show a high level of salicylates, you may need immediate treatment. If levels get too high, it can be fatal.

Even though it's called baby aspirin, it should not be given to children or teens unless your health care provider tells you to. For these age groups, taking aspirin when they have a viral infection can cause a life-threatening disorder called Reye syndrome.

Check with your provider before taking medicines containing salicylates for more than ten days.