Which substance is known to contribute to Reye’s syndrome in children?

Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that can affect children, particularly following a viral infection such as chickenpox or influenza. It is characterized by rapid onset of swelling in the liver and brain. Among the substances mentioned, aspirin is specifically associated with the development of Reye’s syndrome in children and adolescents.

The risk of Reye’s syndrome increases when aspirin is given during a viral illness, likely due to the way the body metabolizes the drug in conjunction with the viral infection. This connection has been substantiated by research and public health advisories, which recommend avoiding aspirin in pediatric patients for treating viral infections. Other medications, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen, have not been linked to Reye’s syndrome, making aspirin distinctly significant in this context.