While essential for individuals who have already had a heart attack (secondary prevention), many experts now advise against daily aspirin for healthy individuals (primary prevention) due to bleeding risks outweighing the benefits. Aspirin - NHS inform
In 1897, Bayer chemist Felix Hoffmann synthesized acetylsalicylic acid to create a more tolerable, less stomach-irritating form of salicylic acid. aspirin
Aspirin works by inhibiting enzymes called cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and COX-2, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins—substances that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. While essential for individuals who have already had
Unlike other NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin permanently disables the COX enzyme for the life of the platelet (about 8–10 days). Unlike other NSAIDs like ibuprofen
It is generally recommended not to give aspirin to children under 16 due to the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition.