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ASA
ASA (acetylsalicylic acid) irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes to reduce platelet aggregation and inflammation.
ASA (acetylsalicylic acid) irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes to reduce platelet aggregation and inflammation. Used for Secondary prevention of myocardial infarction and stroke, Acute coronary syndrome, Pain and fever relief.
At a glance
| Generic name | ASA |
|---|---|
| Also known as | acetylsalicylic acid, aspirin, Cardioaspirin, Aspirin, Trombyl® |
| Sponsor | Biogen |
| Drug class | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID); antiplatelet agent |
| Target | Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1); Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Cardiovascular; Pain management; Immunology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
ASA acetylates serine residues on COX-1 and COX-2, permanently blocking the production of prostaglandins and thromboxane A2. This reduces platelet clumping and has anti-inflammatory effects. At low doses, it preferentially affects platelet function; at higher doses, it provides broader anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits.
Approved indications
- Cardiovascular disease prevention (secondary prevention post-myocardial infarction, stroke, or transient ischemic attack)
- Acute coronary syndrome
- Pain and fever
- Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions
Common side effects
- Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration
- Dyspepsia
- Nausea
- Hemorrhagic stroke (at higher doses)
- Allergic reactions (including bronchospasm in aspirin-sensitive patients)
Key clinical trials
- Screening and Multiple Intervention on Lung Epidemics (PHASE2)
- Effect of Anticoagulant Therapy on Endometrial Receptivity and Pregnancy Outcomes in Infertility
- IRELAnD: Investigating the Role of Early Low-dose Aspirin in Diabetes (PHASE3)
- Aspirin in Preventing Colorectal Cancer in Patients With Colorectal Adenoma (PHASE2)
- The Impact of Factor Xa Inhibition on Thrombosis, Platelet Activation, and Endothelial Function in Peripheral Artery Disease (PHASE4)
- The Effect and Safety of Combined Anti-platelet Treatment in Acute Ischemic Stroke Due to Large Artery Atherosclerosis (PHASE4)
- Impact of First-trimester Preeclampsia Screening on Perinatal and Maternal Morbidity (RANSPRE) (NA)
- Short-Term Anticoagulation Versus Antiplatelet Therapy for Preventing Device Thrombosis Following Left Atrial Appendage Closure (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |