Aspirin is the generic name for acetylsalicylic acid. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) sold under many brand names in sizes ranging from 81 to 500 milligrams, according to MedicineNet.
Aspirin is a non-narcotic pain reliever which also treats inflammation and fever effectively. It also reduces the ability of blood to clot and inhibits the function of platelets more effectively than other NSAIDs. It is the only available over-the-counter, no-prescription form of the drug available on the market. Aspirin is often recommended for the treatment of arthritis and soft-tissue injuries. Low doses of aspirin are taken to prevent strokes and heart attacks.
