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Aspirin or acetylsalicylic acid as its generic name is a common medicine that has many uses. The active ingredient in aspirin, acetylsalicylic acid, is a derivative of salicin, which occurs naturally in the bark and leaves of trees such as the willow tree.
Aspirin in various forms has been in use since the ancient Egyptians and even the Greeks mention using willow bark to relieve pain back in 400BC. In 1838, an Italian chemist was able to extract salicin to a pure state which he named salicylic acid. Unfortunately, this irritated the stomach. The aspirin we know today came out in the late 1890’s in the form of acetylsalicylic acid. A chemist Dr Felix Hoffman at Bayer used the drug to help his father, he had been taking salicylic acid to relieve his rheumatism symptoms, but this irritated the stomach and tasted awful. So Felix produced a synthetic version that was easily absorbed by the body and more pleasant. Bayer named the drug aspirin and launched it into the market where it was then sold worldwide.
What are the benefits of taking Aspirin?
As well as relieving pain aspirin can reduce the risks of heart disease and stroke.
At high doses, usually 300mg aspirin can relieve pain and reduce fever or inflammation caused by conditions such as:
When taken long term but at a lower dose, usually 75mg has an antiplatelet effect, this means it makes the blood thinner so can reduce the risk of blood clots developing. Because of this taking aspirin at a low dose can help the following:
If you have had a stroke or a heart attack or you are at a high risk of one, then your doctor might recommend a daily low dose.
Types of aspirin
Aspirin comes mainly as tablets, there are standard tablets and enteric coated aspirin tablets which should be swallowed whole. Enteric means the tablets are coated and so are gentler on the stomach. There are also soluble tablets that be dissolved in water and drank and chewable tablets.
Aspirin can be purchased over the counter from pharmacies and some are available on prescription, there are many brand names available and most supermarkets will have their own brand.
Side effects
Most people can take aspirin without any issues. However, always speak to a doctor or even a pharmacist before taking aspirin long term. You should also seek advice before taking aspirin if you have any of the following:
You should not take aspirin if you have haemophilia a blood disorder in which your blood isn’t able to clot as it should. You should also avoid drinking alcohol if you are taking aspirin. You should also speak to your doctor about taking aspirin if you are going to have a surgical operation.
Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 unless it has been prescribed by a doctor. There is an association with aspirin use in children and the condition Reye’s syndrome. Fortunately, Reye’s syndrome is very rare, but it can be life threatening. Symptoms of Reye’s syndrome include seizures, drowsiness, vomiting and aggressive or unusual behaviour.
How to use
It is usually advisable to take 3-4 times a day at a high dose (300mg) until your symptoms are better and one a day for a low dose (75mg), usually for the rest of your life. You should take with food if possible and drink with a glass of water. If you have a sore throat you might find that gargling with aspirin can relieve your symptoms.
Always follow the instructions on the leaflet enclosed. You should not take more than 4g daily.
Side Effects.
As with all drugs there is a possibility of side effects, the most common is indigestion and stomach pains, however if you take with food this should help with this. You may find you bruise or bleed more than usual. Other possible side effects may include hives, breathing difficulties, allergic reaction, bleeding in the brain or stomach, however, these are quite rare. If you experience any unusual side effects, then contact your doctor or call 999 if the reaction is severe.
Precautions:
Never take more than the recommended dose
Always ensure the medicine is in date
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