Aspirin contains Acetylsalicylic Acid or simply ASA. There is no prescription required for Aspirin which was the first non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that was developed for pain relief and reducing inflammation and fever. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

When taken as directed, Acetylsalicylic Acid inhibits the chemical reaction your immune system sets off that is responsible for the production of prostaglandins, a substance responsible for inflammation. Taking Aspirin after an injury or to get rid of a headache can help keep prostaglandin levels low so you can find relief from the inflammation and pain.

One of the most common reasons for taking Acetylsalicylic Acid generic is for the anti-clotting benefits that are widely proclaimed by many physicians for their patients that have had a heart attack and/or have stents placed to prevent an attack. Usually, the low-dose Aspirin is recommended because taking the more powerful NSAIDs long-term can cause other health risks. Aspirin or Acetylsalicylic acid generic is recommended to treat pain and fever of colds or flu and to prevent life-threatening blood clots.

Check with your doctor before you take Aspirin to see if it is the right medication for your situation. Other medical conditions may become aggravated with the NSAID use of Acetylsalicylic Acid. If you are taking other OTC or Rx medicine talk to your doctor or pharmacist so you do not risk negative drug interactions by combining them with Aspirin. Giving Aspirin to children is now greatly discouraged since the discovery of certain health problems that it can cause such as an increased risk of Reye’s syndrome.