Potential therapeutic applications of aspirin and other cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitors.

Abstract

1 The ubiquitous actions of the cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitors are described. 2 These include the inhibitory effect on prostaglandin synthesis and the direct effect of aspirin on lymphocytes and their ability to produce lymphokines. 3 Aspirin reduces some types of platelet aggregation possibly involving inhibition of the precursors of thromboxane A2 and prostacyclin. 4 The therapeutic implications in relation to transient ischaemic attacks, coronary artery disease and reno‐allograft rejection are discussed. 5 The beneficial and adverse effects on the gastro‐intestinal tract are described. 6 The effects of aspirin‐like drugs on the genito‐urinary tract are described with particular reference to their adverse effects on labour and their therapeutic effect on dysmenorrhoea.

A clinical trial of a slow‐release formulation of acetylsalicylic acid in patients at risk for preeclampsia.

“…This differential effect could reflect the known irreversible effect of acetylsalicylic acid on platelet TXA2 synthesis. Platelets have a life span of about 10 days (Farah & Rosenberg, 1980) in contrast to the approximately daily turnover of prostacyclin (Jaffe & Weksler, 1979).…”

Colorectal cancer prevention: Diet, drugs, or nothing

“…Although the precise mechanism for this cancer preventive activity is not clear, it is believed that it occurs through inhibition of COX enzymes (both COX-1 and -2) and the prevention of the synthesis of prostaglandins and other metabolites associated with inflammation and carcinogenesis [38][39][40][41]. Alternative mechanisms to COX inhibition that need further exploration have been postulated recently.…”

Salate derivatives found in sunscreens block experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice

“…Statistical analyses were performed using the two-tailed Fisher exact probability test for incidence, the Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric test with Dunn's multiple comparison test for EAE severity (mean scores) and body weight. The unpaired Student's (10,20, and 30 μL or 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 g/kg) of homosalate or octisalate topically. The mean score was recorded.…”