Wonder drug!

Professor M Zahidul Haque, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka
Aspirin is popularly known as a 'Wonder Drug' because aspirin has a number of health benefits. Among the 'non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)' aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is famous for its quick pain reducing anti-inflammatory property. Aspirin has the ability to prevent blood from clotting which helps in reducing coronary heart disease events and stroke. This wonder drug also helps in preventing colon cancer, dementia (e.g. Alzheimer's disease). A latest research found that aspirin is capable of preventing breast cancer during the early stages and can control further spreading of cancer after surgery. Meanwhile, even with so many good properties aspirin has its side effects. People who take aspirins regularly even in coated form remain at risk of developing a perforated ulcer or bleeding in the GI tract. Hence it is widely suggested by the physicians to take a lower dose of aspirin with necessary precautions.