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Australian Prescriber Vol. 23 No. 3 2000

Paracetamol: overused in childhood fever

Paracetamol is a commonly used medicine in Australia. It can be taken to relieve pain and a dose is recommended before children are given a vaccination.

Parents often give children paracetamol when they are unwell. Although paracetamol can reduce a child's temperature, it may not make them better. Paracetamol may prolong the time the child is infected with a virus.

While paracetamol has a mild benefit on some of the child's symptoms, it is a potentially toxic drug. Paracetamol, particularly extra strength preparations, can damage a child's liver if too much is given. Some children have died because they have been given too much paracetamol.

Feverish children should be cuddled, but not covered with extra clothes or blankets. They should drink plenty of water or dilute fruit juice. Sponging down the child can help.

If paracetamol is given the instructions on the label must be carefully followed. Seek medical advice if the fever persists.