National patterns of aspirin use and Reye syndrome reporting, United States, 1980 to 1985

The number of cases of Reye syndrome reported annually to the Centers for Disease Control declined markedly between 1980 and 1985. In this article, we present pharmaceutical marketing research data that suggest sharp decreases in the use and purchase of children's aspirin between 1980 and 1985. These trends appear to correspond to the decrease in reporting of Reye syndrome cases. Additionally, analysis of physician mentions of aspiring and acetaminophen for treating flu and chickenpox showed statistically significant trends toward decreasing recommendations for the use of aspirin and significant trends toward increasing recommendations for use of acetaminophen. Trends in wholesale purchases of aspirin and acetaminophen by drug stores from 1979 through 1985 demonstrated a significant decline for the 81-mg children's aspirin tablet and an increase in purchases of children's acetaminophen products. Many factors may influence physician and parents' choice of analgesic/antipyretic medication, including information about Reye syndrome. Data suggest that a continuing decline in the use of aspirin for children may be accompanied by a continuing decline in the reported number of Reye syndrome cases.