Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Acetylsalicylsäure / Español: Ácido acetilsalicílico / Português: Ácido acetilsalicílico / Français: Acide acétylsalicylique / Italiano: Acido acetilsalicilico

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), commonly known as aspirin, is a widely used medication in the pharmaceutical industry known for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. In the context of quality management, acetylsalicylic acid is significant for ensuring consistent production quality, regulatory compliance, and patient safety.

Description

Acetylsalicylic acid in the quality management context involves rigorous processes to maintain the highest standards of drug safety and efficacy. The production of ASA must adhere to strict regulatory guidelines to ensure each batch meets predefined quality criteria. Quality management systems (QMS) play a crucial role in this process, encompassing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), validation protocols, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.

The historical significance of ASA dates back to the late 19th century when it was first synthesized by Felix Hoffmann at Bayer. Since then, it has become one of the most extensively used medications globally. Quality management ensures that the production processes for ASA are optimized to prevent contamination, ensure proper dosage, and maintain the drug's stability over its shelf life.

Application Areas

Acetylsalicylic acid is utilized in various medical and therapeutic applications, including:

• Pain Relief: Used to alleviate mild to moderate pain from conditions such as headaches, toothaches, and muscle aches.
• Anti-inflammatory: Treats inflammation in conditions like arthritis.
• Antipyretic: Reduces fever in various febrile conditions.
• Cardiovascular Health: Low-dose ASA is prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Well-Known Examples

Prominent examples of acetylsalicylic acid application include:

• Bayer Aspirin: One of the most recognized brands globally, Bayer's aspirin has been a trusted name in pain relief for over a century.
• Ecotrin: A brand of aspirin known for its enteric coating that minimizes stomach irritation.
• Disprin: Popular in many countries for its fast-acting relief from pain and fever.

Treatment and Risks

Acetylsalicylic acid is effective but carries potential risks, particularly with long-term use. These risks include:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Long-term use can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding, and irritation.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, including asthma exacerbation.
• Reye's Syndrome: Rare but serious condition in children, hence ASA is not recommended for those under 16 with viral infections.
• Bleeding Risks: Increased risk of bleeding, particularly in individuals with clotting disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications.

Symptoms, Therapy, and Healing

Symptoms

• Pain: Relief of mild to moderate pain.
• Inflammation: Reduction in swelling and inflammation.
• Fever: Lowering of elevated body temperature.

Therapy

• Dosage: Advised by healthcare professionals based on the condition being treated. Typically, 75-325 mg for cardiovascular protection, 325-650 mg for pain relief.
• Combination Therapy: Sometimes used in combination with other medications for enhanced therapeutic effect.

Healing

• Recovery: Effective for short-term symptomatic relief. For chronic conditions, ASA can be part of a long-term management plan.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring for side effects is essential to ensure safety, especially in long-term use.

Similar Terms

• Ibuprofen: Another NSAID used for pain and inflammation.
• Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): Used primarily for pain and fever without anti-inflammatory effects.
• Naproxen: Another NSAID with similar uses but a different chemical structure.
• Diclofenac: A potent NSAID used for pain and inflammatory conditions.
• Celecoxib: A COX-2 inhibitor used for pain and inflammation with a lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

Weblinks

• medizin-und-kosmetik.de: 'Acetylsalicylsäure' im Lexikon von medizin-und-kosmetik.de (German)

Summary

Acetylsalicylic acid is a critical medication in the pharmaceutical industry, known for its widespread use in pain relief, inflammation reduction, fever management, and cardiovascular protection. Quality management ensures its production meets rigorous safety and efficacy standards, minimizing risks and ensuring patient safety. While effective, ASA must be used with caution due to potential side effects, emphasizing the importance of proper quality control and regulatory compliance in its production and use.

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