Acetylsalicylic acid is an acetylated derivative of salicylic acid with analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic agents. The anti-inflammatory action of this active ingredient is due to the mechanism of inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis of inflammatory mediators. From a strictly biochemical point of view it acts by acetylating the amino group of the subunit terminal to cyclooxygenase activity of the enzyme prostaglandin synthetase, and thereby inhibiting the activity of the enzyme and thus the biosynthesis of prostaglandins.
What is Acetylsalicylic acid?
Acetylsalicylic acid is used in the treatment for pain of lower intensity (headache, muscle aches, toothache, dysmenorrhea). It is also used in the treatment of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and in the symptomatic treatment of fever and flu-like syndromes as well as cooling.
How should Acetylsalicylic acid be taken?
The Acetylsalicylic acid is commercially available in the form of tablets, effervescent tablets and suspension for oral use and in the form of injectable solutions.
Side effects associated with Acetylsalicylic acid
The assumption of acetylsalicylic acid can lead to different side effects that may occur in more or less severe way according to the predisposition of the individual patient, and according to the dosage and duration of therapy. In general, however, the intake of this substance can lead to intestinal disorders such as:
- Sting
- Gastralgie
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Ulcers
- Hemorrhages in severe cases
Haematological disorders such as:
- Loss of the coagulation capacity of the blood
- Pancytopenia (decrease in the number of all the formed elements of the blood)
Genital and urinary disorders such as:
- Deterioration of renal function
Dermatological disorders such as:
- Erythema nodosum
- Rash
- Dermatitis
- Bullous reactions in the most serious cases
Sensory disturbances such as:
- Decrease in hearing
- Ophthalmopathies
Metabolic disorders such as:
- Alterations mainly dependent on the carbohydrate metabolism
Central disorders such as:
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Drowsiness
- Confusion and tremors
Cardiovascular disorders such as:
- Increased risk of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Acetylsalicylic acid
Acetylsalicylic acid is strictly contraindicated during both pregnancy and breast -feeding. The use of this drug is also not recommended in patients with angioedema, peptic ulcers, intestinal bleeding, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease or previous history for the same conditions, concomitant anticoagulant therapy, kidney and liver failure, as well as asthma. Furthermore, the drug is not indicated for use in children under 12 years of age.
