A: Children under 16 years old should not take aspirin as it can be very dangerous as it is linked with a rare condition called Reye's disease. This condition can cause major brain and liver problems which may lead to death. Aspirin should therefore be avoided in anyone under 16 years old except when specifically recommended by a hospital consultant. There are lots of other medicines available to help migraine in young people but you should get help from your doctor. As you are under 18 years old and in full time education you and your family will not have to pay for the cost of the medication that your doctor prescribes.
Dr Sue Lipscombe