Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which was patented in 27 February, 1900. Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), is commonly used for pain treatment, fever, and inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. In low doses, it is used to prevent blood clot formation, which reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack.
The mechanism by which aspirin acts is inhibition of the activity of cyclooxygenase enzyme (COX), that is responsible for the formation of prostaglandins (PGs). PGs are a group of hormone-like substances, which control processes such as inflammation, fever, and aggregation of platelets. Although aspirin acts therapeutically, it may also have some adverse effects, such as stomach ulcer and prevention of blood cloths when required.