Paracetamol and ibuprofen

Paracetamol is suitable for children over the age of 2 months

What forms of paracetamol are available?

Paracetamol is widely available in syrup or tablet form. It is also comes as liquid, soluble tablets and suppositories

How much paracetamol can I give?

Paracetamol can be given up to every 4 hours. Give a maximum of 4 doses in 24 hours.

Do not exceed the dose on the bottle. Make sure that the dose is correct as it changes as children get older.

With any pain relief, take only as prescribed and make sure the instructions on the bottle/packet are followed.

Are there any side effects of paracetamol?

Paracetamol rarely causes side effects if taken in the correct dose. If you are worried or notice anything unusual speak to a pharmacist or doctor.

Ibuprofen can be used to ease pain and control fever

It is suitable for children over the age of 3 months who weigh more than 5kg

What forms of ibuprofen are available?

Ibuprofen is widely available as syrup and tablets. It is also comes as granules and gel

How much ibuprofen can I give my child?

It can be given every 6 hours. Give a maximum of 3 doses in 24 hours.

Do not exceed the dose prescribed on the bottle. Make sure that the dose is correct as it changes as children get older. Try to give it with food or after a milky drink.

Are the any side effects of ibuprofen?

Use ibuprofen cautiously if your child is asthmatic, has a history of stomach ulcers or has kidney, liver or heart problems. Inform a doctor if they are not already aware.

Ibuprofen is best avoided in chickenpox and shingles.

Paracetamol and ibuprofen can be given together but you should stagger the doses. Each one will take 30 minutes to 1 hour to work. Wait 1 hour after the first medicine to see if they need the other. For example if they still have a high fever and are distressed or if they are still in pain.

Reviewed by Dr T Shaw in October 2023, next review in October 2026.

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