Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is one of the oldest and most versatile medicines — used for pain, fever, and as a cornerstone of cardiovascular prevention therapy.
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) belongs to the NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) family and has been in clinical use for over 125 years. It works by irreversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes — reducing prostaglandin synthesis, which underlies its anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), antipyretic (fever-reducing), and antiplatelet (blood-thinning) effects.
At standard doses (300–600mg), aspirin effectively relieves mild-to-moderate pain (headache, musculoskeletal pain, toothache) and reduces fever. It is available without prescription at pharmacies across Korea. Low-dose aspirin (75–100mg daily) is prescribed as antiplatelet therapy to reduce the risk of blood clots in patients with established cardiovascular disease (previous heart attack, stroke, peripheral arterial disease), or after coronary artery stenting — it is a cornerstone of secondary cardiovascular prevention.
Important safety considerations: aspirin should NOT be given to children under 16 (risk of Reye's syndrome — a rare but serious liver and brain condition). It increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in the elderly and those already taking NSAIDs or anticoagulants — a proton pump inhibitor (e.g., omeprazole) is often co-prescribed for stomach protection. Aspirin should be used cautiously in patients with asthma (can trigger bronchospasm), peptic ulcers, or bleeding disorders. Routine use of low-dose aspirin for primary prevention (in people without established cardiovascular disease) is no longer recommended for most adults due to bleeding risk outweighing benefit.
Key Points
- Do NOT give aspirin to children under 16 (Reye's syndrome risk)
- Low-dose (75–100mg) aspirin for cardiovascular secondary prevention only
- Always take with food to reduce stomach irritation
- Increases bleeding risk — caution with anticoagulants and NSAIDs
- Available without prescription at Korea pharmacies
- Aspirin allergy or sensitivity can trigger asthma — use with caution
When to See a Doctor
- Before starting low-dose aspirin for cardiovascular prevention — prescription needed
- If you have a history of stomach ulcers, asthma, or kidney disease
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you are taking other blood thinners or NSAIDs
- Any unusual bleeding or dark stools while taking aspirin
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
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Last reviewed: March 1, 2025