Table of Contents
What is Acetylsalicylic Acid or Aspirin?
Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is a drug that is most commonly used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). ASA can be used to treat a number of conditions, including headaches, muscle pain, and also in arthritis. It is also sometimes used to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Formula of Acetylsalicylic Acid
The molecular formula of acetylsalicylic acid is C9H8O4. It is a white, crystalline powder that is slightly soluble in water and soluble in alcohol. Acetylsalicylic acid is the active ingredient in aspirin, which is used to relieve pain and fever.
Structure of Acetylsalicylic Acid
Acetylsalicylic acid is a white, crystalline powder with a slightly bitter taste. It is soluble in water and in alcohol. However the chemical name for acetylsalicylic acid is 2-acetoxybenzoic acid. The structural formula is
The acetyl group (CH3CO) is attached to the benzene ring. Therefore the phenyl group attached to the carbon next to the oxygen atom. The carboxylic acid group attached to the carbon next to the nitrogen atom.
Properties of Aspirin
Aspirin a medication in the family of drugs called NSAIDs, which stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Aspirin used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It is available over the counter and by prescription. Aspirin is a white, crystalline powder that is slightly soluble in water and very soluble in alcohol. It has a slightly bitter taste. Aspirin is a weak acid and has a pKa of 3.5. It is a prodrug that converted to its active form in the body. However the active form of aspirin called salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, which means it blocks the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals that involved in pain, fever, and inflammation.
Synthesis of Acetylsalicylic Acid
To a mixture of 2.5 g (0.01 mol) of salicylic acid and 3 ml of acetic anhydride added 5 ml of concentrated sulfuric acid. The mixture heated on a water bath for one hour. The reaction is complete when no more acetic anhydride evolved. The product then cooled, diluted with water, and also extracted with ether. Therefore the ether extract dried (MgSO4) and the weight of the product is 2.3 g.
Uses of Acetylsalicylic Acid/Aspirin
- Aspirin used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever.
- It also used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other heart problems.
- Aspirin sometimes also used to treat the symptoms of arthritis.
Side Effects of Aspirin
The side effects of aspirin may include:
- Bleeding
- Allergic reactions
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rashes
- Stomach pain
- Heartburn
- Dizziness
- ringing in the ears
- confusion
- and also headache
The side effects of aspirin may vary depending on the person taking it. If you experience any adverse effects while taking aspirin, consult your doctor.
Aspirin: Summary in Tabular Form
Aspirin is a medication that used to treat pain and also inflammation. It is available as a tablet, a capsule, and a liquid. It is also available in a patch that applied to the skin. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. Aspirin is also a blood thinner. It also helps to prevent blood clots from forming.
