Abstract
Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is one of the most commonly used drugs in the world. It derives from the extract of white willow bark, whose therapeutic potential was known in Egypt since 1534 BC. ASA’s pharmacological effects are historically considered secondary to its anti-inflammatory, platelet-inhibiting properties; however, human studies demonstrating a pro-inflammatory effect of ASA exist. It is likely that we are aware of only part of ASA’s mechanisms of action; moreover, the clinical effect is largely dependent on dosages. During the past few decades, evidence of the anti-infective properties of ASA has emerged. We performed a review of such research in order to provide a comprehensive overview of ASA and viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections, as well as ASA’s antibiofilm properties.
Highlights
Aspirin is one of the most commonly used drugs in the world [1].It derives from the extract of white willow (Salix alba) bark
We selected papers focused on systemic diseases, while studies related to Helicobacter pylori infection, rhinitis, sinusitis, rhinosinusitis, gingivitis and periodontitis were excluded
We reviewed articles judged more relevant, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview based on available literature related to the role of Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)’s effects on infectious diseases
Summary
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is one of the most commonly used drugs in the world [1]. It derives from the extract of white willow (Salix alba) bark. The first evidence of the therapeutic use of salix ( known as willow) dates back to 1534 BC from the Egyptian. The use of willow bark continued through ancient Greece and through to Roman times [1]. In the 19th century, scientists were able to produce a compound from the crystals isolated from willow bark which was named salicylic acid [3] and in 1852, salicylic acid was acetylated for the first time to reduce its irritant properties. After more than 100 years, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is still a first-line drug for several clinical needs. Bloodstream infection; HIV: human immunodeficiency virus; PJI: prosthetic joint infections
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