Aspirin

Aspirin is a medicine that reduces pain, fever and inflammation. Aspirin is generally avoided in children and adolescents for pain. Giving aspirin to children who have a viral infection is linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare condition that affects all organs of the body, especially the liver and brain. However, aspirin may be used to treat certain conditions in children, such as Kawasaki disease. Your healthcare professional can tell you when aspirin is safe to give.

Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium have replaced most aspirin use in people under 18 years of age. These medicines carry their own risks such as gastritis, so talk to your healthcare professional about the best choice for your child.