Introduction
Aspirin is a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. A low-dose of aspirin is widely used in cardiovascular disease due to it's antiplatelet properties.
Higher-doses of aspirin are used in certain situations such as Kawasaki disease.
Higher-doses of aspirin are used in certain situations such as Kawasaki disease.
Mechanism of action
Aspirin works by blocking the action of both cyclooxygenase-1 and 2. Cyclooxygenase is responsible for prostaglandin, prostacyclin and thromboxane synthesis. The blocking of thromboxane A2 formation in platelets reduces the ability of platelets to aggregate which has lead to the widespread use of low-dose aspirin in cardiovascular disease.