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(Products that contain Aspirin or Salicylates)
What is the Role of Aspirin?
Epidemiological
research has shown an association between the development of
Reye's Syndrome and the use of aspirin (a salicylate compound) for treating the
symptoms of influenza-like illnesses, chicken pox, colds, etc. The U.S. Surgeon
General, the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that aspirin and combination products containing
aspirin (Medication
List) not be given to children under 19 years of age during episodes of
fever-causing illnesses. Acetylsalicylate is another word for aspirin; some
medicine labels may use the words acetylsalicylate, acetylsalicylic acid,
salicylic acid, or salicylate instead of the word aspirin. Always ask your
doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication.
It is possible to develop Reye's Syndrome without taking aspirin.
However, the chances of developing Reye's Syndrome can be reduced by not giving
aspirin to individuals for relief of discomfort or fever without first
consulting a physician for each specific use. Anti-nausea medications may
also contain salicylates, and may mask the symptoms of Reye's Syndrome.
 Teenagers and adults are especially at risk of developing Reye's Syndrome due
to self-medication. Too often, teenagers are ingesting aspirin-type products
without parental knowledge. Teenagers should be made aware of the different
forms of pain relievers on the market and make certain they check with a parent
before using any medications.
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