Reye's Syndrome

Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition causing brain and liver swelling, potentially fatal, primarily affecting children recovering from viral infections and theoretically linked to willow bark extract due to its salicin content, similar to aspirin.

Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain. It most often affects children and teenagers recovering from a viral infection, such as the flu or chickenpox. Signs and symptoms may include confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. It can lead to permanent brain damage or death. Although linked historically to aspirin use during viral illnesses, there is a theoretical risk associated with willow bark extract due to its salicin content, which metabolizes to salicylic acid in the body.