II.

Uses

The effects of aspirin depend on the dosage level. In small to moderate doses of one or more tablets, it helps reduce fevers and cold symptoms, and can relieve mild to moderate pain from common ailments such as headaches, toothaches, muscle sprains, or minor injuries. In higher doses it can help treat inflammation associated with conditions such as rheumatism and arthritis. For example, arthritis patients may take 10 or more doses of aspirin a day.

Aspirin can be combined with other analgesic drugs to provide stronger pain relief than a single drug would if used alone at a higher dose, and with fewer side effects, such as drowsiness or risk of addiction. Combinations of aspirin with butalbital, codeine, and caffeine are used for treating tension headaches and migraines.

In recent years, medical research has found that regular aspirin usage may have protective effects against a range of serious diseases. Low daily doses of aspirin can reduce the incidence of heart attack and stroke according to a series of studies, mainly from the drug’s anticlotting effects. Other research indicates that regular doses of aspirin may reduce the risk of colon cancer, and possibly breast cancer and prostate cancer. Aspirin use may also be helpful in preventing or treating diseases and conditions such as diabetes, adult asthma, and prostate enlargement.