D.3.2Describe the use of derivatives of

salicylic acid as mild analgesics and compare the advantages and

disadvantages of using aspirin and paracetamol (acetaminophen).

How they work

• Aspirin and Paracetamol (acetaminophen) are both mild analgesics

• They reduce pain in different ways, by reducing the pain at the source and in the transmission to the brain and lowering the production of prostaglandin.

ComparisonAspirin Paracetamol

Prevents production of Prostaglandin at the source of pain. Stops transmission of pain to the brain.

Stops production of Prostaglandin in the brain, without changing it in the rest of the body.

Benefits

Aspirin Paracetamol

Is and antipyretic and anti-inflamatory

Reduces fevers, head aches and muscle aches

Thins the blood => Reduces the risk of stroke

It is one of the safest analgesics.

Side Effects

Aspirin Paracetamol

Stomach bleeding

Asthma

Peptic ulsters Dangerous with alcohol consumption

Reye syndrome for children

Over use causes liver kidney damage

• Salicylic Acid + Acetic Anhydride → Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) + Acetic Acid