What is the primary use of aspirin (ASA)?

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is primarily used for its analgesic (pain-relieving), antipyretic (fever-reducing), and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation, which is crucial for its blood-thinning effects. This means that aspirin is often prescribed to reduce pain from conditions such as headaches, menstrual cramps, and arthritis, while also being used in low doses to prevent blood clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

The blood-thinning property of aspirin makes it particularly valuable for patients who are at risk of cardiovascular events, as it helps to prevent clots from forming in the blood vessels. This dual action of providing pain relief and acting as an anticoagulant showcases aspirin's versatility in therapeutic applications.

In contrast, other options involve medications that target different conditions. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications do not relate to aspirin’s pharmacological properties, and while aspirin does possess antipyretic effects, it is not limited to that use alone, as it also effectively addresses pain and serves critical cardiovascular purposes. Therefore, the primary use of aspirin encompasses both pain relief and blood thinning.