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
Top Related