Aspirin: The evolution of a 'wonder drug' that changed medicine

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INNOVATION

A similar natural substance, acetylsalicylic acid, comes from plants that contain salicin.

It relieves pain, fever, and inflammation by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins.

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Dr. Jenna Crowe-Riddell

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Aspirin has traditionally been used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches (especially tension-type headaches), period pain, and toothaches.

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As an anti-inflammatory drug, it is sometimes applied as a treatment for injury-related inflammation, such as strains or sprains.

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According to clay tablets from the Sumerian period, the Assyrians used willow leaves to treat rheumatic disease.

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Aspirin: The evolution of a 'wonder drug' that changed medicine

BY MAIA MULKO

INNOVATION

INNOVATION

Aspirin was first synthetized in 1897 by a chemist who worked for Bayer.

A similar natural substance, acetylsalicylic acid, comes from plants that contain salicin.

INNOVATION

It relieves pain, fever, and inflammation by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins.

INNOVATION

Dr. Jenna Crowe-Riddell

Aspirin is included on the WHO’s list of most essential medicines, which is a selection of the most effective medications that address the most health needs in the world.

INNOVATION

Aspirin has traditionally been used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches (especially tension-type headaches), period pain, and toothaches.

INNOVATION

As an anti-inflammatory drug, it is sometimes applied as a treatment for injury-related inflammation, such as strains or sprains.

INNOVATION

According to clay tablets from the Sumerian period, the Assyrians used willow leaves to treat rheumatic disease.

INNOVATION

More in the article.

INNOVATION

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