Aspirin: Bitter pill or miracle drug?

Abstract

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or brand name Aspirin is a widely available medication used to relieve inflammation, fever and pain. It has also been frequently prescribed as prevention for cardiovascular disease due to its anti-thrombotic qualities. However, ASA is also connected to increased internal bleeding, leading to concerns that this harmful side effect may outweigh its cardioprotective properties in some populations. In this review, we summarize data from several recent, large-scale clinical trials that put into the question the long-standing recommendations about prescribing ASA for primary cardiovascular disease. We also provide a detailed overview of the role of ASA in cancer, surgery and female reproductive health. Finally, we discuss the ASA prescription guidelines of several major medical organizations and suggest that this new evidence may lead to updates to these influential and longstanding recommendations.

Keywords: Acetylsalicyclic acid; Aspirin; Cardiovascular disease; Internal bleeding; Preventative medicine; Stroke.