Acetylsalicylic Acid, Aspirin, ASA, NSAID, OTC Drugs

Acetylsalicylic Acid or Aspirin as it would become known was first prepared by French chemist, Charles Frederic Gerhardt in 1853. It was also the first discovered NSAID or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

After four more decades of research, in 1897 Bayer began testing acetylsalicylic acid as a replacement for common salicylate medicines of the day.

By 1899 Bayer had begun promoting Acetylsalicylic Acid as Aspirin and was selling the product around the world.

Aspirins success and popularity continued to gain momentum throughout the first half of the twentieth century up until acetaminophen hit the market in 1956 and then Ibuprofen in 1969.

With more scientific evaluation from the 1960's thru the 80's, it was discovered that Aspirin possessed an anti-clotting agent that reduced clotting diseases.

Sales picked up again and in the last two decades of the twentieth century Aspirin became the drug used to help prevent heart attack and stroke.

With all the therapeutic valu Aspirn has given over the years it also has its scary side too.

Aspirin can cause stomach bleeding, tinnitus(In large dosages), hives and Reyes Syndrome a very serious ailment which affects the brain and liver.and if left poorly treated will result in death.

It generally affects children and teens who are recovering from a bout with the flu or cold.

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