From the Guidelines
Aspirin as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent
Aspirin is indeed an anti-inflammatory agent.
Key Points
- Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which inherently implies its anti-inflammatory properties 1.
- It works by irreversibly inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2, which are involved in the production of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever 1.
- The mechanism of action of aspirin, through its inhibition of COX enzymes, not only contributes to its anti-inflammatory effects but also to its analgesic and antipyretic properties.
- While the primary use of aspirin has been for its analgesic and antipyretic effects, its role in preventing cardiovascular events and potentially reducing the risk of colorectal cancer has been recognized, with its anti-inflammatory properties playing a part in these benefits 1.
Clinical Considerations
- The use of aspirin must be balanced against its potential risks, particularly gastrointestinal toxicity and bleeding, which are dose-dependent and related to its inhibition of COX-1 in the gastric mucosa 1.
- In clinical practice, the decision to use aspirin for its anti-inflammatory effects, or for the prevention of cardiovascular events or colorectal cancer, should be made on an individual basis, considering the patient's overall risk profile and potential for adverse effects.
- Given the wealth of information from studies such as those published in the Annals of Internal Medicine 1, and considering the consensus from guidelines like those from the US Preventive Services Task Force, aspirin's role as an anti-inflammatory agent is well-established, albeit with careful consideration of its use.
From the FDA Drug Label
This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding (anticoagulant) Pain Reliever (NSAID) The NSAID classification indicates that aspirin has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Aspirin is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which suggests it has anti-inflammatory effects.
- The drug label explicitly states that aspirin is a Pain Reliever (NSAID), further supporting its anti-inflammatory properties. 2 2
From the Research
Aspirin as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent
- Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) 3, 4, 5
- It is effective against mild-to-moderate pain of inflammation 3
- The mechanism of action of aspirin involves the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which is achieved through the inhibition of prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase (PGHS) or cyclooxygenase (COX) synthesis 4, 6, 7
- Aspirin's anti-inflammatory properties are also attributed to its ability to inhibit the production of prostanoids, which are precursors for prostaglandins and thromboxanes 6
- Additionally, aspirin has been shown to have antioxidant properties, induce adenosine release, and trigger lipoxin formation, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects 6
Therapeutic Uses of Aspirin
- Aspirin is used as an analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory agent 3, 4, 5
- It is also used as an anti-thrombotic agent in primary and secondary thrombo-embolic prevention 4
- Aspirin has been explored for its potential use in the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, and neurologic ailments like Alzheimer's disease 7
- The decision to use aspirin for these purposes should be guided by specific molecular markers and consideration of both the risks and benefits of its application 7