Aspirin is categorized with a group of drugs known as salicylates, and is used in the treatment of mild to moderate pain, as well as the reduction of fever and inflammation.http://www.drugs.com/aspirin.html The medication works by inhibiting production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that help aid in blood clotting and sensitize nerve endings. http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blaspirin.htm Aspirin, which sells under brand names like Bayer Aspirin, Bufferin, Aspergum, Ecotrin, and Halfprin, is also used in the treatment and prevention of heart attacks, strokes, and angina. Common side effects that may be associated with the drug include drowsiness, upset stomach, heartburn, and headaches.http://www.drugs.com/aspirin.html

Also known as acetylsalicylic acid, the aspirin formula and name was patented on February 27, 1900 by the German company Bayer. A chemist for the company, Felix Hoffman, made the formula in 1899 from a formula originally created by French chemist Charles Frederic Gerhardt, who was able to neutralize salicylic acid with a sodium and acetyl chloride buffer. This allowed the drug to be effective while at the same time preventing it from causing stomach pain. Gerhardt had no interest in marketing his formula, which he abandoned, making it possible for Hoffman and Bayer to lay claim to it in 1900.http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blaspirin.htm

On December 6, 2010, a study published in the journal Lancet suggested that taking an aspirin each day could help prevent cancer. The findings were a result of eight separate studies done on over 25,000 patients, and suggested that years of taking an aspirin each day reduced the risk of certain types of cancer, including lung cancer and stomach cancer. For those that took an aspirin daily for over 20 years, the chances of being diagnosed with lung cancer dropped by 30%, while colorectal cancer dropped by nearly 40%, and esophageal cancer by 60%. Although the findings are encouraging, taking aspirin on a daily basis is not without risks. One in every 2,000 to 3,000 people have an increased risk in being diagnosed with ulcers, as well as doubling their risk of experiencing internal bleeding.http://health.usnews.com/health-news/managing-your-healthcare/cancer/articles/2010/12/07/health-buzz-daily-aspirin-could-reduce-cancer-deaths.html

• eMedicincHealth.com: Aspirin Poisoning Information

• StJosephsAspirin.com: St. Josephs Aspirin

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are suffering form pain please make sure to consult your doctor.