Aspirin

ASPIRIN, C₉H₈O₄, acetylsalicylic acid, is obtained by the action of acetic anhydride or acetyl chloride on salicylic acid. Aspirin consists of fine white needle-shaped or plate-like crystals, melting at 133°-135°; odorless, with an acidic taste, sparingly soluble in water (1:300), more easily soluble in ether (1:20), and readily soluble in alcohol, alkalis, and soda. In medicine, it is used instead of salicylic acid and its salts, from which it differs by a more pleasant taste and less irritating local action, since it is not decomposed in the stomach. Decomposition of aspirin occurs in the alkaline contents of the small intestines, where the salicylic acid set off is absorbed relatively slowly and uniformly, thereby significantly reducing the danger of poisoning. Aspirin little depresses cardiac activity, is well tolerated by the body, and rarely produces side effects. Aspirin is used as a specific remedy for acute articular rheumatism, in chronic joint and muscle rheumatism, in gout, as an antipyretic in febrile diseases, and as a sedative and analgesic in various neuralgic conditions. Aspirin is administered orally in doses of 0.3-0.5-1.0 g per dose, up to 3-5 g per day for men and up to 2-3 g for women, in powder, lozenges, or tablets. Externally, it is used in a 3% alcoholic solution or in 5% ointments. Of aspirin preparations, calcium salts (Kalmopyrin), lithium salts (Hydropyrin), magnesium salts (Apyron s. Novacyl), and compounds with urea (Diafor) are used.