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Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is a common over-the-counter medication primarily used to treat pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever [1]. However, it is also used for various off-label purposes, which are not officially approved by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Here are some off-label uses for aspirin:

1. Cardiovascular disease prevention: Aspirin is often prescribed to individuals with a history of heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular diseases to help prevent future events [2]. It works by reducing the formation of blood clots, which can cause blockages in the blood vessels supplying the heart or brain.

2. Antiplatelet therapy: Aspirin is used as an antiplatelet agent in patients undergoing certain medical procedures, such as angioplasty or stent placement, to prevent blood clots from forming on the stents [3].

3. Migraine prevention: Some studies suggest that aspirin may help prevent migraines or reduce their severity and frequency [4].

4. Cancer prevention: Research has shown that aspirin may help lower the risk of certain types of cancer, including colon, esophageal, and stomach cancers [5]. However, the benefits must be weighed against the risks, as long-term aspirin use may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

5. Rheumatoid arthritis: Aspirin is sometimes used to alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint pain and inflammation [6].

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting aspirin for any off-label uses, as it may interact with other medications or have adverse effects in certain individuals.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Aspirin. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-acetylsalicylic-acid/art-20362802
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2014). FDA strengthens warnings for non-aspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/fda-strengthens-warnings-non-aspirin-nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-nsaids
3. American Heart Association. (2021). Aspirin and Heart Disease. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/treatment-of-a-heart-attack/aspirin-and-heart-disease
4. National Headache Foundation. (n.d.). Aspirin. Retrieved from https://headaches.org/2007/10/01/aspirin/
5. American Cancer Society. (2021). Aspirin and Cancer Risk. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/aspirin-and-cancer-risk.html
6. Arthritis Foundation. (2021). Aspirin. Retrieved from https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/treatments/medication/aspirin