Final answer:
Aspirin acts as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic drug by inhibiting COX enzymes, making it effective against low-to-moderate intensity pain associated with inflammation. It is also used in combinations with other drugs for pain relief but must be used with caution to avoid side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you take aspirin to remove a headache, the removal of pain is due to aspirin's properties as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic drug. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work by blocking the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes involved in pain and inflammation. Although aspirin-like drugs are typically effective only against pain of low-to-moderate intensity, particularly that associated with inflammation, they do not change the perception of sensory modalities other than pain. For chronic pain or pain from inflammation, aspirin is particularly effective, whereas it usually does not relieve pain arising from the hollow viscera.
Aspirin is an ester of salicylic acid and overcomes the stomach irritation typically caused by salicylic acid alone. It is often used in combination with other drugs for the relief of arthritis and other painful conditions, but one should be careful about the potential for overuse and the risk of side effects such as gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeds, heart attack, and kidney disease.
In summary, the type and intensity of pain are important factors in determining how effective aspirin will be. While there are risks associated with its use, aspirin remains a common and useful medication for pain relief when employed correctly.