Acetylsalicylic acid

An article about Acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin

Acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, is a medication used to reduce pain, fever, or inflammation. Specific inflammatory conditions which aspirin is used to treat include Kawasaki disease, pericarditis, and rheumatic fever. Aspirin is also used long-term to help prevent further heart attacks, ischemic strokes, and blood clots in people at high risk. It may also decrease the risk of certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer.

History

The use of willow bark, which contains salicin, dates back to ancient times. The modern form of aspirin was developed by Felix Hoffmann, a chemist at Bayer, in 1897. It was initially marketed as a powder and later as tablets.

Mechanism of Action

Aspirin works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which results in a decreased formation of prostaglandins and thromboxanes. This inhibition is irreversible, which is why aspirin has a prolonged effect on platelet function.

Medical Uses

Aspirin is used for:

• Analgesic: To relieve minor aches and pains.
• Antipyretic: To reduce fever.
• Anti-inflammatory: To reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis.
• Antiplatelet: To prevent blood clots, reducing the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke.

Side Effects

Common side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and tinnitus. Aspirin should be used cautiously in people with asthma or peptic ulcer disease.

Contraindications

Aspirin is contraindicated in children with viral infections due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. It should also be avoided in individuals with known hypersensitivity to NSAIDs.

Interactions

Aspirin can interact with other medications such as warfarin, methotrexate, and other NSAIDs. It can also affect the efficacy of antihypertensive drugs.

See Also

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
• Salicylic acid
• Ibuprofen
• Paracetamol

External Links

• Drugs.com: Aspirin
• Mayo Clinic: Aspirin