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Investigatory Project Aspirin

Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, is widely used for pain relief, fever reduction, anti-inflammatory purposes, and as a preventive treatment for cardiovascular diseases. However, long-term use can lead to gastrointestinal issues, bleeding risks, allergic reactions, kidney damage, and is not recommended for children due to Reye's Syndrome. The preparation of aspirin involves a chemical reaction between salicylic acid and acetic anhydride, and it is recognized as a significant drug in medical history.

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25 views2 pages

Investigatory Project Aspirin

Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, is widely used for pain relief, fever reduction, anti-inflammatory purposes, and as a preventive treatment for cardiovascular diseases. However, long-term use can lead to gastrointestinal issues, bleeding risks, allergic reactions, kidney damage, and is not recommended for children due to Reye's Syndrome. The preparation of aspirin involves a chemical reaction between salicylic acid and acetic anhydride, and it is recognized as a significant drug in medical history.

Uploaded by

vinitjain07875
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Investigatory Project on ASPIRIN

(Acetylsalicylic Acid)
The Use of Aspirin in Daily Life

1. Frequency of Usage of Aspirin in Daily Life (Considering it to be a Safe Drug)

Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is one of the most widely used medications
globally. It is commonly taken for:

- Pain relief (analgesic) – headaches, muscle pain, arthritis, etc.


- Fever reduction (antipyretic)
- Anti-inflammatory purposes
- Preventive treatment of cardiovascular diseases, especially in low doses (75-100 mg daily)

Millions use aspirin daily as a blood thinner to prevent heart attacks or strokes. In the U.S.,
an estimated 29 million people use it daily for heart health. It is commonly recommended
for people over 50 with cardiovascular risks. Often available over-the-counter, making it
accessible and frequently used.

Note: While considered safe, it should not be taken without medical advice, especially for
long-term use.

2. Health Challenges Posed by the Frequent Usage of Aspirin

Despite its benefits, long-term or frequent aspirin use can pose health challenges:

- Gastrointestinal issues: Stomach ulcers, irritation, and internal bleeding due to acidity.
- Bleeding risk: Inhibits clotting; can lead to prolonged bleeding even from minor injuries.
- Allergic reactions: Rashes, asthma attacks in aspirin-sensitive individuals.
- Kidney damage: High doses over time can impair kidney function.
- Reye’s Syndrome (in children): A rare but serious condition; aspirin is not recommended
for children.

Conclusion: Regular aspirin use must be monitored under medical supervision to avoid
these risks.
3. Preparation of Aspirin with Mechanism

Chemical Equation:
Salicylic acid + Acetic anhydride → Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) + Acetic acid

Mechanism:
1. Salicylic acid contains a phenol (-OH) group.
2. Acetic anhydride reacts with the hydroxyl group of salicylic acid.
3. The reaction is catalyzed by H₂SO₄ or phosphoric acid.
4. Esterification occurs, forming an ester bond – this gives acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin).

Reaction Conditions:
- Catalyst: H₂SO₄ or H₃PO₄
- Reflux or heating gently in a water bath (~70–90°C)
- Product: Crystallized aspirin upon cooling

4. Properties of Aspirin

- Chemical Formula: C₉H₈O₄


- Molecular Weight: 180.16 g/mol
- Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Melting Point: ~136°C
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in ethanol
- Taste: Bitter
- Stability: Decomposes in moist air, forms salicylic acid
- Odor: Slight vinegar-like smell due to hydrolysis

5. Popularity as a Drug

Aspirin is one of the most popular and historically significant drugs:

- Discovered in 1897 by Felix Hoffmann (Bayer).


- Sold under brand names like Disprin, Ecotrin, Bayer Aspirin.
- Included in the WHO's List of Essential Medicines.
- Millions of prescriptions and over-the-counter purchases worldwide annually.
- Used in preventive cardiology, making it a routine medicine in elderly populations.

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