ASPIRIN
Aspirin is a medicine that
relieves pain and reduces fever.
Purpose
Aspirin is used to relieve many kinds of minor aches and
pains--headaches, toothaches , muscle pain, menstrual cramps, the
joint pain from arthritis, and aches associated with colds and flu.
Some people take aspirin daily to reduce the risk of stroke, heart
attack, or other heart problems.
Description
Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is sold over the
counter and comes in many forms, from the familiar white tablets to
chewing gum and rectal suppositories. Coated, chewable, buffered,
and extended release forms are available. Many other
over-the-counter medicine contain Aspirin. Alka-Seltzer Original
Effervescent Antacid Pain Reliever, for example, contains aspirin
for pain relief and sodium bicarbonate to relieve acid indigestion,
heartburn, and sour stomach.
Aspirin belongs to a group of drugs called Salicylates. Other
members of this group include Sodium Salicylate, Choline Salicylate,
and Magnesium Salicylate. These drugs are more expensive and no more
effective than aspirin. However, they are a little easier on the
stomach. Aspirin is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and
provides quick and relatively long-lasting pain relief. Aspirin also
reduces inflammation. Researchers believe these effects come about
because aspirin blocks the production of pain-producing chemicals
called prostaglandins.
In addition to relieving pain and reducing inflammation, aspirin
also lowers fever by acting on the part of the brain that regulates
temperature. The brain then signals the blood vessels to widen,
which allows heat to leave the body more quickly.
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