Aspirin (Bayer Aspirin, Bufferin, Ecotrin)

Other Medications

US FDA Approved EU EMA Approved ES Funded by SNS other indication Oral 28 Clinical Trials
COX-1 COX-2

Description

Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that functions as a non-selective cyclooxygenase inhibitor, commonly used in colorectal cancer as an adjuvant therapy and for cancer prevention. In CRC treatment, aspirin is primarily utilized for its anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet effects, which may help reduce tumor progression and metastasis. Clinical evidence suggests particular benefit in patients with PIK3CA-mutated colorectal tumors, where aspirin may improve survival outcomes when used alongside standard therapies.

Mechanism of Action

Aspirin irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymes by acetylating serine residues, thereby blocking the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins and thromboxane A2. This inhibition reduces inflammation, platelet aggregation, and prostaglandin E2 production, which can promote tumor growth and angiogenesis. The anti-cancer effects are thought to involve modulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, particularly in PIK3CA-mutated tumors.

Molecular Targets

Side Effects

Gastrointestinal bleeding Peptic ulcer disease Nausea Dyspepsia Increased bleeding risk Tinnitus Dizziness Allergic reactions

Not all side effects are listed. Side effects vary by individual. Always consult your oncologist.

Clinical Trials

NCT06728072 Phase 2
Recruiting
Addition of Antibiotics to Upfront Treatment Regimen for Colorectal Cancer
United States
NCT05462613 Phase 2
Recruiting
Regorafenib With Low-dose Chemotherapies and Aspirin Followed by Standard Chemotherapies in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
France
NCT05411718 Phase 2
Recruiting
A Phase IIa Randomized, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial of Naproxen or Aspirin for Cancer Immune Interception in Lynch Syndrome
United States
NCT03957902 Phase 2
Recruiting
Assessment of Direct Biomarkers of Aspirin Action to Develop a Precision Chemoprevention Therapy of Colorectal Cancer
Spain
NCT06378398 Early Phase 1
Archived
A Trial of Omeprazole and Low Dose Aspirin to Identify Colorectal Biomarkers of Preventive Efficacy
United States
NCT05056896 Early Phase 1
Active, not recruiting
ASPIRED-XT: ASPirin Intervention for the REDuction of Colorectal Cancer Risk -EXTension
United States
View all 28 clinical trials →