Aspirin, a widely used drug, is chemically known as Acetyl Salicylic acid. It is an acetylated form of salicylic acid, where an acetyl group (CH3CO) is attached to the phenolic hydroxyl group of salicylic acid. The chemical formula for Acetyl Salicylic acid is C9H8O4. This modification enhances its therapeutic efficacy and reduces gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with salicylic acid. Understanding the chemical composition of aspirin helps in comprehending its function and usage in medical applications, primarily as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent.
Thus, the correct answer is Acetyl Salicylic acid.