ACETAMINOPHEN AND ASPIRIN - PRESCRIPTION, USE, AND ACCIDENTAL INGESTION AMONG CHILDREN

Among 3587 hospitalized children monitored by the Pediatric Drug Surveillance Program from 1974-1979, acetaminophen was prescribed for 32% and aspirin for 3%. In the 3 mo. before admission, 23% reported use of either drug. In both inpatient and preadmission settings, acetaminophen use increased from 1975-1977 and decreased subsequently. Aspirin prescriptions were consistent over the entire study period among inpatients, but preadmission use decreased substantially. The Massachusetts [USA] Poison Information Center observed a 36% increase in calls concerning aspirin from 1976-1977 and 1977-1978, similar to the increase in all calls, but acetaminophen calls increased by 87%. Long-standing concerns about the toxic effects of aspirin, coupled with recent concerns about hepatotoxic effects of acetaminophen in overdose, may be leading physicians and parents to decrease the use of both drugs for the treatment of fever.