How Aspirin Changed Medicine Forever

Aspirin, derived from willow bark, has a rich history in medicine. Initially used by ancient civilizations, its active ingredient, salicylic acid, was later synthesized, leading to the development of modern aspirin. The Bayer Group played a key role in making aspirin less toxic and widely available. Aspirin's mechanism involves inhibiting prostaglandins, which helps reduce pain and inflammation. It also acts as a blood thinner, reducing heart attack risks. Despite its side effects, aspirin remains popular for its diverse benefits.

What was the original natural source of aspirin's active ingredient?

• Peruvian bark

• Willow bark

• Myrtle leaves

• Cinchona bark

Who was the chemist that challenged the idea of vitalism by synthesizing urea?

• Edward Stone

• Raffaele Piria

• Friedrich Wohler

• John Vane

What was a major side effect of salicylic acid before it was modified by Bayer?

• Gastritis

• Drowsiness

• Headaches

• Rashes

What chemical process did Bayer use to make salicylic acid less toxic?

• Hydrogenation

• Fermentation

• Acetylation

• Oxidation

When did aspirin become available without a prescription?

• 1930

• 1920

• 1915

• 1945

What discovery in the 1970s helped explain how aspirin works?

• The development of acetylsalicylic acid

• The inhibition of prostaglandins

• The isolation of salicin

• The synthesis of urea

What enzyme does aspirin irreversibly bind to, reducing pain?

• Protease

• Amylase

• Lipoxygenase

• Cyclooxygenase

Who speculated that aspirin could prevent heart attacks due to its blood-thinning effects?

• Lawrence Craven

• Friedrich Wohler

• John Vane

• Edward Stone

What effect does aspirin have on platelets?

• Destroys them

• Increases their production

• Enhances their function

• Prevents them from clumping

Besides heart disease, what other condition might low-dose aspirin help prevent?

• Asthma

• Alzheimer's disease

• Colorectal cancer

• Diabetes