Pepto-Bismol use in children after a viral illness increases risk of which syndrome?

• A. Reye syndrome
• B. Guillain-Barré syndrome
• C. Meningitis
• D. Autism

Answer: (A)

Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate, which releases salicylate. In children who have recently had a viral illness, salicylates can trigger Reye syndrome, a rare but life-threatening condition characterized by acute liver failure and encephalopathy. Because of this risk, aspirin- or salicylate-containing products should be avoided in kids with viral infections. The other options don’t have a known link to this medication in this setting.