Weekly Dose: aspirin, the pain and fever reliever that prevents heart attacks, strokes and maybe cancer
- Written by Andrew Tonkin, Professor and Head, Cardiovascular Research Unit, Monash University
Aspirin is, like ibuprofen and Voltaren (diclofenac), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and reduce fever.
What makes aspirin different from other NSAIDs is its ability to thin the blood, and it is used to prevent blood clotting in those at risk of heart disease and stroke. Recently, it has also shown potential to reduce the risk of some cancers.
Authors: Andrew Tonkin, Professor and Head, Cardiovascular Research Unit, Monash University