Aspirin - Take Two and Call Me in the Morning

Got a pounding headache? Migraine? Fever with the Flu? Body all aching and wracked with pain? Arthritis? Take two aspirin and call your doctor in the morning. Previously had a heart attack or stroke or just want to reduce the risk? Take a low dose aspirin daily (only at the direction of your physician). Aspirin was originally the trade name belonging to Bayer AG for acetylsalicylic acid and first went on sale in 1899. Aspirin, an analgesic, antipyretic, and anticoagulant medication, is arguably the most commercially successful drug ever. It is one of the most widely used medicines in the world today, with an estimated 40,000 tons consumed each year.

Aspirin is classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) that works effectively to ease pain and swelling, lower a fever and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. For pain, it is as effective as Tylenol® (acetaminophen) as well as NSAIDs Advil® (ibuprofen) or Aleve® (naproxen). Physiologically aspirin works by suppressing prostaglandins and thromboxanes. Prostaglandins function in pain transmission, body temperature control and inflamation. Thromboxanes are responsible for the aggregation of the platelets that form blood clots.

Chemically aspirin is known as acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and was first discovered in 1853. It was derived from salicylic acid, which is found in willow bark. Salicylic acid is the principle metabolite of aspirin and had been in use medicinally for centuries.

Aspirin use decreased significantly in the late 50's until it was discovered in the 80's to have efficacy as an anticlotting agent. It has found renewed support when used prophylactically in stroke and heart attack survivors as well as those at risk for these diseases. It is now suggested that taking an aspirin or two at the onset of a suspected heart attack may decrease the morbidity or mortality of the event. The FDA suggests to first seek emergency care (call 911) and then take aspirin only at the direction of the doctor.

Aspirin use can have some potentially serious side effects. It can cause nausea and heartburn and long term use contributes to GI bleeding and stomach ulcers. Large doses, such as when used for arthritis, can cause tinnitus or ringing in the ears. In children under 18, aspirin has been linked with increased likelihood of Reye's Syndrome, and it should not be given to anyone under the age of 12 who has a fever.

Aspirin, in spite of its age, is truly still a wonder drug. It should be a staple in everyone's medicine cabinet and first-aid kit, along side the Band-Aids® and Betadine®.

One day God will relieve all pain and suffering from our world. Revelation 21:4 - "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. (NIV)"