Over 80 billion aspirin tablets are taken per year for problems such as inflammation, headaches, swelling, fever and other problems. It is one of the most popular medications in the United States.

Aspirin is a member of a group of chemicals called salicylates. It was officially named aspirin by a Bayer employee in 1899. Aspirin works by slowing the production of the signals that are sent to the brain when a person hurts themselves, or stimulates their nerve endings. Aspirin doesn’t stop the actual problem, but simply quiets the signals that it is sending to the brain. When patients take aspirin it absorbs into the bloodstream and moves throughout the entire body. However, it only goes into effect where signals are being sent to the brain.

When taken with a doctor’s advice, aspirin can reduce inflammation and swelling caused by injury or arthritis.

In recent years, scientists have found that aspirin can be effective for problems other than pain. Because it slows down blood clot production, aspirin can prevent heart attacks. Adults who want to prevent heart attacks or strokes have to take aspirin regularly. However, before beginning an aspirin regimen patients should consult their doctor. People taking an aspirin medicine can take additional aspirin for headaches or other pain relief, but they should first consult with their doctor. It also lowers fevers.

Current research shows that aspirin may be beneficial in helping eye problems, cancer, blood disease and high blood pressure during pregnancy.

The fact that aspirin slows blood clot production can also be a side effect. If someone takes it when they cut themselves, the healing of the cut may be slowed. It can also upset the stomach, especially when it is taken in high doses for illnesses like arthritis. It has been suggested that young taking children who take aspirin may develop a deadly illness called Reye syndrome. Aspirin may cause people to have trouble breathing, although it is very rare. As a result, people who have asthma should avoid aspirin. Another side effect is stomach upset, but fewer than six percent of the population cannot take aspirin because of stomach problems.