What is the duration of action for Aspirin (ASA) when taken?

The duration of action for Aspirin (ASA) when taken is typically around 4-6 hours. This timeframe reflects how long the drug maintains its therapeutic effects in the body, specifically its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation and reduce pain, inflammation, or fever.

Aspirin works by irreversibly inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which prevents the formation of thromboxane A2, a substance crucial for platelet aggregation. The effects of aspirin on platelet function can last much longer than the duration of action in terms of other effects, as it affects the platelets for their entire lifespan, which is about 7-10 days. However, for symptomatic relief and other pharmacological effects, the 4-6 hour duration is typically referred to.

Understanding this duration is important for determining appropriate dosing intervals and managing conditions like acute coronary syndromes, where timely administration can play a critical role in patient outcomes.