You should not normally give your child these medicines together (unless directed to do so by a qualified healthcare professional).
Using paracetamol or ibuprofen
You can give your child paracetamol or ibuprofen:
- to lower a high temperature (fever)
- to treat mild to moderate pain
Treating your child’s fever
If your child’s fever does not improve after treatment with either paracetamol or ibuprofen, you may want to consider using the other medicine instead.
You should not give your child both medicines at the same time (unless directed to do so by a qualified healthcare professional).
Treating your child’s pain
If treatment with either paracetamol or ibuprofen does not improve your child’s pain, you may want to consider using the other medicine instead.
If you feel that your child needs more than one type of painkiller, contact your GP for advice. If your GP advises using both medicines, they will tell you how to do this, including what dose to use and how often to give it to your child.
Giving your child the medicine
Check with your pharmacist when you buy your medicine to make sure you have the right strength for your child. Before you give the medicine to your child, read the information on the packaging or bottle carefully.
Ideally, you should calculate the dose based on your child’s weight. Never exceed the maximum dose.
Paracetamol can be given every 4-6 hours. Ibuprofen has a longer interval between doses: 6-8 hours, and it can therefore be useful for controlling fever during the night.
Remember to keep a regular check on the number of doses you give your child over a 24-hour period.
Paracetamol and ibuprofen are usually given to children using:
- a medicine spoon
- an oral syringe
Some medicines are soluble and can be dissolved in water, milk or a fruit drink. Make sure that your child finishes the drink, to ensure that they receive the correct dose.
Read more about giving your child painkillers and children’s medicines.
When to get further advice
If your child's symptoms continue for more than 72 hours, you should contact your GP for advice. You can also phone NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
Read the answers to more questions about medicines.
Further information:
