Aspirin: Painkiller to wonder drug in 100 yrs

However, Indian doctors still advise a daily dose of aspirin for only those who are at risk of a heart attack, and after consultation. First patented by German Pharmaceutical Bayer in 1899, Aspirin’s cardiovascular properties came to light in 1974 when researchers showed a low dose of aspirin over time reduced death by heart attacks.

‘‘Doctors may advise people who have had heart attacks or a stroke to take an aspirin daily for the rest of their lives to reduce their chance of a repeat attack. It can even be advised daily for people who are at risk of developing the disease—they include people who are smokers, have high blood pressure, have a family history of the disease or are diabetic,’’ says Dr K.K. Talwar, Head of the Department of Cardiology at AIIMS.

For the past decade, evidence has accumulated that years of aspirin use may reduce the risk of developing certain cancers. The best evidence so far is a study that showed colorectal cancer would be reduced 20 to 30 per cent. ‘‘There are also reports that it can help fight cancer of the oesophagus, stomach, breast and ovary,’’ says Dr (Lt Col) Rajat Kumar, Professor of Heamatology at AIIMS.

Alzheimer’s is another disease that has just been added to Aspirin’s can-prevent list. Studies show it can cut the risk of developing it by more than 10 per cent. The drug’s anti-oxidation properties could also be behind its anti-cancer and Alzheimer’s benefits.

On the flipside, there are some side-effects. ‘‘There are reports of damage to the urinary bladder but it is not confirmed,’’ says Dr Kumar. Dr Talwar adds: ‘‘Some studies show that people with stomach problems might get ulcers and bleeding due to prolonged use of the medicine. So the daily dose is advisable for high-risk groups only.’’