Aromatic carboxylic acids represent a chemically and pharmacologically privileged scaffold in medicinal chemistry, combining the electronic properties of aromatic systems with the versatile reactivity of the carboxyl group. Among these, benzoic acid and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) stand as two of the most widely studied and clinically impactful compounds in pharmaceutical history. This review critically examines the medicinal chemistry, pharmacological mechanisms, structure–activity relationships (SAR), and therapeutic applications of benzoic acid and its derivatives alongside acetylsalicylic acid, drawing on contemporary research published between 2010 and 2024. Key findings indicate that benzoic acid derivatives exert potent antimicrobial activity through membrane disruption and metabolic interference with bacterial folate synthesis, while acetylsalicylic acid's irreversible inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) isoenzymes underpins its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and antiplatelet actions. Emerging research highlights the potential of novel synthetic derivatives bearing the benzoic acid or salicylate pharmacophore for oncology, neurodegenerative disease, and antimicrobial resistance applications. The scientific significance of this work lies in providing an integrated mechanistic and clinical analysis of two structurally related yet functionally diverse chemical classes, identifying critical knowledge gaps, and delineating future directions in aromatic carboxylic acid drug discovery.

Aromatic carboxylic acids, benzoic acid, acetylsalicylic acid

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