Aspirin is a medication with multiple effects and uses:
- It works by stopping the production of certain natural substances in the body called prostaglandins and thromboxanes. Prostaglandins cause pain, fever, and inflammation, while thromboxanes help platelets form blood clots
- As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), aspirin reduces pain, fever, and inflammation. It is commonly used for headaches, toothaches, period pain, colds, flu-like symptoms, and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, pericarditis, and Kawasaki disease
- Aspirin irreversibly inhibits the cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), which blocks the formation of thromboxane A2 in platelets, reducing platelet aggregation and blood clot formation. This antithrombotic property makes aspirin useful in preventing heart attacks, ischemic strokes, and other cardiovascular events in people at high risk
- Aspirin is often prescribed for cardiovascular disease patients to prevent blood clots that can block arteries and cause heart attacks or strokes
- It is available over the counter and is widely used globally
- Common side effects include upset stomach, stomach ulcers, and bleeding risks, especially in older adults or those taking other blood thinners. It is not generally recommended for children with infections due to the risk of Reye syndrome
In summary, aspirin relieves pain, reduces fever and inflammation, and prevents harmful blood clots, making it valuable both as a painkiller and a cardiovascular protective agent.
