Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), commonly known as aspirin, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects, working by irreversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis. It is also used in low doses for cardiovascular protection by inhibiting platelet aggregation. The medicinal use of salicylic acid derivatives dates back to ancient times with willow bark, but ASA was synthesized in 1897 by Felix Hoffmann at Bayer as a more stable, less irritating form of salicylic acid, leading to widespread clinical use. Today, aspirin remains a versatile drug for pain, inflammation, and heart disease prevention, though care is needed due to possible gastrointestinal and bleeding side effects.
