Cardiovascular pharmacology core reviews: aspirin.

Acetylsalicylic acid, or aspirin, is perhaps the most well-studied drug in human history, but controversy persists regarding both optimal dose and its use in the primary prevention of atherothrombotic events. This article reviews the following: the effect of aspirin upon the cyclooxygenase pathway; clinical trials of aspirin for both secondary and primary prevention; prospective and retrospective studies of aspirin dose; the potential interaction between aspirin and ticagrelor; and the concept of aspirin resistance. It concludes with a review of major society guidelines regarding aspirin and offers a perspective on the evidence-based use of aspirin in clinical practice.