Why Does Old Aspirin Smell Like Vinegar?

Aspirin is a salicylate drug-containing acetylsalicylic acid having bountiful medical uses. It is extracted from the Willow tree.

Some people use it as an antipyretic to lower the body temperature associated with fever, and some may use it as an anti-inflammatory agent. It tastes bitter and can sometimes irritate the stomach as well.

Currently, Aspirin is one of the most popular drugs used to cure mild to moderate pain and inflammation due to arthritis, as it serves as an excellent analgesic.

One of the frequently asked questions we might have heard or seen over the internet is why old Aspirin smells like vinegar? We are eagerly looking to answer this question as we want to finish this debate once and for all!

a) Aspirin contains salicylic acid and acetic acid, which are yielded when an Aspirin undergoes hydrolysis. Aspirin loses its vigour in these cases and assumes a reversible action tending to produce both these acids components. You might already know the acetic acid is a vital component in vinegar, due to which it starts smelling like vinegar when it gets old.

b) If people stock it for an extended period, places with heavy rainfalls or even with slightly moist conditions allow it to decompose. Aspirin starts smelling like vinegar.

c) Aspirin turns out to be ineffective, just like any other drug, once it is expired. If you consume it upon expiry, it can be deteriorating for your body. After it has expired, you will notice a vinegary smell in its chemical composition. (See What happens when you mix Vinegar with Baking Soda?)

Aspirin has certain kinds of side effects like all other medicines. That’s why it is recommended not to consume it in high quantities. If someone does, their body may tend to develop tinnitus, gastrointestinal ulcers, and stomach bleeding. Apart from that, it must never be used to treat viral illness, such as flu or chickenpox. Aspirin has certain kinds of side effects like all other medicines. That’s why it is recommended not to consume it in high quantities. If someone does, their body may tend to develop tinnitus, gastrointestinal ulcers, and stomach bleeding. Apart from that, it must never be used to treat viral illness, such as flu or chickenpox. (See Side effects of HGH (Human Growth Hormone) Injections)