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what is aspirin?

Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and antiplatelet properties. It works by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme, which reduces the production of prostaglandins responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever. Aspirin is commonly used to relieve headaches, muscle pain, toothaches, menstrual cramps, and fever, and in low doses, it helps prevent heart attacks and strokes by reducing blood clot formation. It is available in various forms, including regular, chewable, and enteric-coated tablets. Common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, and mild bleeding, while serious risks include gastrointestinal bleeding, allergic reactions, and Reye’s syndrome in children.

Uses / Indications

Pain relief: Headache, toothache, muscle pain, menstrual pain. Fever reduction: Helps lower high body temperature. Inflammation reduction: Useful in arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Cardiovascular protection: Prevents heart attacks and strokes in people at high risk. Reduces formation of blood clots by inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Dosage

Pain / Fever: 325–650 mg every 4–6 hours as needed (max ~4 g/day). Heart attack / Stroke prevention: Usually 75–100 mg daily (low-dose).

Mechanism of Action:

Aspirin works by blocking an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2). This reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever. At low doses, it inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing clot formation.

Side Effects:

Common / Mild: Stomach upset, nausea, heartburn Mild bleeding tendencies (like nosebleeds or easy bruising) Serious / Rare: Stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) Reye’s syndrome in children (especially during viral infections) Precautions / Contraindications: Avoid in children and teenagers with viral infections (risk of Reye’s syndrome). People with stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or severe kidney/liver disease should avoid it. Should be used cautiously with other blood-thinning medicines. Forms Available: Tablets (regular, chewable, or enteric-coated) Capsules Effervescent tablets Powder (less common)