What is another name for a salicylate? Understanding This Common Compound

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

Used for millennia, with Sumerians using willow tree remedies for pain 4,000 years ago, salicylates are a class of chemicals derived from salicylic acid [1.2.3]. So, what is another name for a salicylate? The most common is acetylsalicylic acid, known worldwide as aspirin [1.2.6].

Quick Summary

Salicylates are a group of drugs often used for pain, fever, and inflammation. The most recognized name for a salicylate is acetylsalicylic acid, or aspirin. This class also includes other forms like methyl salicylate and salsalate.

Key Points

Another Name for Salicylate: The most common alternative name for a salicylate is acetylsalicylic acid, which is commercially known as aspirin [1.2.2].
Broad Chemical Family: Salicylates are a diverse class of drugs derived from salicylic acid, including methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) [1.4.1, 1.2.5].
Mechanism of Action: They primarily work by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which reduces the production of prostaglandins responsible for pain and inflammation [1.5.2].
Key Uses: Salicylates are used for pain relief, fever reduction, anti-inflammatory effects, and, in the case of aspirin, preventing blood clots [1.5.2].
Natural and Synthetic Sources: Salicylates are found naturally in many fruits, vegetables, and spices, and are also synthesized for medications and other products [1.3.3, 1.3.6].
Salicylate Sensitivity: Some individuals experience intolerance to salicylates, leading to symptoms like asthma, hives, and stomach upset from both foods and medications [1.6.1, 1.6.2].
Potential Risks: Common side effects include gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding, while high doses can cause tinnitus. Aspirin is linked to Reye's syndrome in children with viral illnesses [1.5.2, 1.4.1].

The Origins and Basic Definition of Salicylates

Salicylates are a group of chemicals, both naturally occurring and synthetically produced, that are derived from salicylic acid [1.3.6]. Their history dates back thousands of years; ancient civilizations like the Sumerians and Greeks used remedies from the willow tree bark, a natural source of the compound salicin, to manage pain and fever [1.2.3]. In 1899, a modified version, acetylsalicylic acid, was trademarked by Bayer as aspirin, and it became one of the most widely used medications globally [1.2.3, 1.5.6].

These compounds are found naturally in many plants, such as fruits and vegetables, where they act as a defense mechanism against insects and disease [1.3.3, 1.3.6]. In medicine, salicylates are valued for their analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties [1.2.5].

What is Another Name for a Salicylate? Common and Chemical Names

The most widely recognized name for a synthetic salicylate is aspirin, which is the common name for acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) [1.2.2, 1.2.6]. However, the salicylate family is diverse and includes many other compounds used in various over-the-counter and prescription products [1.4.1].

Here are some other names and types of salicylates:

Salicylic Acid: The base compound itself, often used topically in skincare products for its keratolytic (skin-peeling) properties [1.2.5].
Methyl Salicylate: Also known as oil of wintergreen, this is commonly found in topical creams and liniments for muscle pain relief [1.4.1].
Magnesium Salicylate: An orally administered non-aspirin salicylate used for pain relief, found in products like Doan's Pills [1.4.1, 1.2.5].
Salsalate: A prescription drug that is metabolized into two molecules of salicylic acid in the body, used for arthritis pain [1.2.1, 1.5.6].
Bismuth Subsalicylate: The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol, used for treating diarrhea, heartburn, and upset stomach [1.4.1].
Choline Salicylate: Another form used for pain and inflammation relief [1.2.1].
Diflunisal: A prescription salicylate medication [1.2.1].

Pharmacological Action: How Do Salicylates Work?

The primary mechanism of action for salicylates is the inhibition of enzymes called cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2) [1.5.2]. These enzymes are crucial for the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are compounds that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever [1.5.2]. By blocking COX enzymes, salicylates reduce the production of prostaglandins, thereby alleviating these symptoms [1.5.2].

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is unique among nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) because it irreversibly inhibits the COX-1 enzyme in platelets [1.9.1, 1.9.5]. This action prevents the production of thromboxane A2, a substance that promotes platelet aggregation (clotting) [1.5.1]. This anti-clotting effect is why low-dose aspirin is often prescribed to help prevent heart attacks and strokes in at-risk individuals [1.4.1]. Other, non-aspirin salicylates have a reversible and less potent effect on platelet function [1.5.6].

Therapeutic Uses and Applications

Given their effects, salicylates are used to treat a wide range of conditions [1.5.2]:

Pain and Inflammation: They are effective for mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, and for inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis [1.4.3].
Fever Reduction: Salicylates lower fever by acting on the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature [1.5.2].
Cardiovascular Protection: Low-dose aspirin is used prophylactically to reduce the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, and ischemic strokes [1.4.3].
Other Conditions: They are also used in treating Kawasaki disease and, off-label, to reduce the risk of certain cancers like hereditary colorectal cancer [1.5.2].


Salicylate Type	Common Brand Names	Primary Use
Acetylsalicylic Acid	Bayer, Ecotrin, Bufferin [1.2.2]	Pain relief, fever, inflammation, anti-clotting [1.5.2]
Bismuth Subsalicylate	Pepto-Bismol [1.7.4]	Upset stomach, heartburn, diarrhea [1.4.1]
Methyl Salicylate	Oil of Wintergreen [1.4.1]	Topical pain relief (creams, liniments) [1.4.1]
Magnesium Salicylate	Doan's Extra Strength [1.2.2]	Pain relief (especially backache) [1.4.1]
Salsalate	Disalcid [1.2.1]	Arthritis pain and inflammation [1.2.1]

Risks, Side Effects, and Salicylate Sensitivity

Despite their benefits, salicylates are not without risks. The most common side effects involve the gastrointestinal system, including stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, and an increased risk of ulcers and bleeding [1.5.2, 1.4.6]. High doses or long-term use can also lead to tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing impairment, and kidney damage [1.5.2]. A severe, potentially fatal condition known as Reye's syndrome can occur if aspirin is given to children or teenagers with viral infections like the flu or chickenpox [1.4.1].

Some individuals have a salicylate sensitivity or intolerance, which is a non-allergic hypersensitivity reaction [1.6.3]. Symptoms can affect the respiratory system, skin, or gut and may include [1.6.1, 1.6.2]:

Asthma-like symptoms or nasal congestion
Hives, skin rashes, or itching
Stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea
Headaches

This sensitivity can be triggered by medications containing salicylates as well as foods that are naturally high in these compounds. Management typically involves avoiding high-salicylate products and foods under medical supervision [1.6.1]. Foods high in salicylates include many fruits (berries, grapes, plums), vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, spinach), spices (curry powder, rosemary, thyme), and beverages like tea and wine [1.7.1, 1.7.4].

Conclusion

In conclusion, while aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is the most common answer to 'What is another name for a salicylate?', it is just one member of a large and versatile class of compounds [1.2.2, 1.2.6]. From the ancient willow bark to modern topical creams and life-saving heart medications, salicylates have a prominent and enduring place in medicine. Understanding their various forms, mechanisms, and potential risks is essential for their safe and effective use. As with any medication, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for long-term therapy or if you suspect a sensitivity [1.4.1].

For more information on the history and pharmacology of salicylates, you can visit the NCBI StatPearls article on Salicylic Acid (Aspirin).

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common and well-known salicylate drug is aspirin, which is the brand name for acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) [1.2.6].

No. While aspirin is a salicylate, not all salicylates are aspirin. The family includes other compounds like methyl salicylate (in muscle creams), magnesium salicylate, and bismuth subsalicylate (in Pepto-Bismol) [1.4.1, 1.2.5].

Salicylates reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting COX enzymes, which blocks the production of pain-signaling compounds called prostaglandins. They reduce fever by acting on the hypothalamus region of the brain, which controls body temperature [1.5.2].

Yes, some people experience salicylate sensitivity or intolerance. This can cause various reactions, including asthma-like symptoms, hives, stomach pain, and headaches, from both medications and foods high in salicylates [1.6.1, 1.6.2].

Yes, salicylates are naturally present in many plants. Foods high in salicylates include many fruits (like berries and grapes), vegetables (like broccoli and spinach), and spices (like curry powder, paprika, and thyme) [1.7.1, 1.7.4].

Aspirin irreversibly inhibits the COX-1 enzyme for the life of the platelet, giving it a long-lasting anti-clotting effect. Most other NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, are reversible inhibitors of COX enzymes [1.9.1, 1.9.5].

Oil of wintergreen is a common name for methyl salicylate, a topical salicylate used in creams and liniments to treat muscle pain [1.4.1]. It is very concentrated and can be toxic if ingested [1.8.3].