Final answer:
Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, is an OTC medication used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It has a long history, being marketed since 1899, and is known for its effectiveness as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent. Although it can have side effects, it is widely used and remains popular for its benefits in reducing heart attacks and strokes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Aspirin, known chemically as acetylsalicylic acid, is a common over-the-counter (OTC) medication used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. OTC drugs like aspirin do not require a doctor's prescription and are regulated by the FDA. Aspirin's history dates back to being formally marketed in 1899, which predates the formation of the FDA in 1906. Despite potential side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding and Reye's syndrome, aspirin has been recognized for its ability to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Aspirin, an ester of salicylic acid found in willow tree bark, modifies the compound to be less irritating to the stomach lining. It is known to be one of the most effective analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory agents consumed in large quantities in the U.S. Additionally, there are other non-selective NSAIDs on the market such as ibuprofen and naproxen, which are available both as prescription and OTC drug products.
Overall, aspirin is our most popular analgesic, with 10 to 20 thousand tons consumed annually in the U.S. Aspirin-like drugs also include other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and the alternative acetaminophen. These OTC medicines are effective for various types of pain and have different availability in terms of prescription requirements.