Aspirin and Reye's syndrome

Reye's syndrome is a rare disorder that occurs almost exclusively in children under the age of 15 and can cause severe liver and brain damage. Taking aspirin seems to significantly increase the risk of developing Reye's syndrome; therefore, do not give aspirin to anyone younger than age 20 unless told to do so by a health professional.

Reye's syndrome can occur when a child seems to be recovering from a viral infection such as a cold, flu, or chickenpox. Symptoms of Reye's syndrome include vomiting, lack of energy, excessive sleepiness, memory loss, confusion, and coma.