Can children or teens take aspirin for fever or pain?
No. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin for fever or pain unless a clinician specifically tells them to. In kids, aspirin use is linked to Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can damage the liver and brain.
Why is aspirin a problem in kids?
Aspirin is associated with Reye’s syndrome in children and teens, particularly after viral illnesses such as flu or chickenpox. Because of this risk, medical guidance generally recommends avoiding aspirin for routine fever and pain treatment in younger people.
What should you use instead for fever or pain?
For most children and teens, parents and caregivers typically use acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen for fever or pain, dosed according to the child’s age and weight and the product label. If a clinician has given specific instructions for a particular situation, follow those instructions.
What if the teen has a chronic condition where aspirin is used?
Some conditions (for example, certain heart or clotting conditions) may require aspirin under a specialist’s direction. In those cases, the decision is individualized, and aspirin is only used with a clinician’s guidance rather than for everyday fever or pain.
When should you call a doctor or seek urgent care?
Seek medical advice urgently if a child or teen with fever or pain has trouble breathing, looks very ill, has severe or worsening symptoms, is difficult to wake, has a stiff neck, or develops a rash or persistent vomiting. For fever, also get prompt guidance if the child is very young, the fever is high, lasts more than a few days, or the child has dehydration.
What to ask the pharmacist or clinician
Ask which over-the-counter medicine is safest for your child’s age and weight, the correct dose, and whether the child has any conditions (for example, stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or asthma) that affect the choice of medicine.
Sources
No specific external sources were provided for this question.