Homonym: Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin)
Acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, is a medication used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. It belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Acetylsalicylic acid works by inhibiting enzymes involved in the production of substances that promote inflammation and pain in the body.
In addition to its pain-relieving properties, acetylsalicylic acid is often used in low doses to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It helps prevent blood clots by inhibiting the aggregation of platelets, which are cells in the blood that help with clotting.