How does paracetamol for children work?
Paracetamol for children seems to work by blocking "chemical messengers" in your child's brain that tell them that they have pain.
Paracetamol also reduces a high temperature by affecting the chemical messengers in an area of the brain that regulates body temperature.
When will my child feel better?
Paracetamol tablets and syrup take about 30 minutes to work. Suppositories take around 60 minutes to work.
If your child's pain lasts for more than 3 days, or if they're teething and paracetamol is not helping with their pain, speak to your doctor.
Is paracetamol or ibuprofen better?
Paracetamol and ibuprofen are both effective painkillers but they work in different ways.
Paracetamol is usually best for some types of pain, including headache and stomach ache. It can also be used if your child has chickenpox.
Ibuprofen is better for reducing inflammation (redness and swelling), including teething and toothache. Do not give your child ibuprofen if they have chickenpox because it may increase the risk of getting a serious skin infection.
What if my child is sick (vomits)?
If your child is sick (vomits) after taking a dose of paracetamol tablets or syrup, do not give them the same dose again.
Wait until it's time for their next dose, or ask a pharmacist or your child's doctor for advice.
If your child is finding it hard to keep tablets or syrup down, ask your child's doctor if you can use paracetamol suppositories. If your child is sick straight after having a suppository, you do not need to give them another dose as the suppository will still work.
Do I need to keep paracetamol syrup in the fridge?
No, you do not need to put paracetamol syrup in the fridge.
Keep it in a cupboard away from heat and sunlight, and out of the reach of children.
Is there any food or drink they need to avoid?
Your child can eat and drink normally while taking paracetamol.
You can give your child paracetamol (but not ibuprofen) on an empty stomach.