aspiriini

Aspiriini is the Finnish name for aspirin, the common analgesic acetylsalicylic acid. It is one of the oldest and most widely used medicines, developed in the 1890s by Felix Hoffmann at Bayer and introduced to medical use in 1899. Aspirin is available in various tablet forms, including standard and enteric‑coated versions, and is sold over the counter in many countries for relief of pain, fever, and inflammation. Low‑dose aspirin is prescribed for cardiovascular risk reduction in select patients.

Mechanism and uses: Aspirin acts by irreversibly inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzymes COX‑1 and COX‑2, which decreases the production of prostaglandins and thromboxane A2. The antiplatelet effect arises from COX‑1 inhibition in platelets and lasts for the lifetime of platelets (about 7–10 days). At higher doses, it provides analgesic and anti‑inflammatory effects and can reduce fever. It is used for relief of headaches, muscle pain, dental pain, and inflammatory conditions, and in low doses for prevention of heart attack or stroke in selected patients.

Safety and limitations: Common adverse effects include stomach upset, gastritis, and, with longer use or high doses, peptic ulcers and GI bleeding. Aspirin increases bleeding risk and can interact with other anticoagulants and NSAIDs. It should not be given to children or teenagers with viral infections due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Caution is advised during pregnancy, in people with bleeding disorders or active ulcers, and around planned surgery; use should be guided by a clinician.