Use of acetaminophen in young children

Acetaminophen, such as Anacin 3, Panadol, Tempra, or Tylenol, helps reduce fever and relieve pain. It does not reduce swelling, as do nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen, but it also does not cause stomach upset and other side effects.

Acetaminophen is the preferred medication to reduce fever in children. If your child has a fever of 102° (38.9°) or higher and is uncomfortable, consider using acetaminophen to lower the fever.

Be sure to follow these medication precautions.

• Call your health professional or pharmacist if you are unsure of the right dose for your child.
• Do not use acetaminophen if your child is allergic to it.
• Read all the instructions on the medication bottle and box carefully before giving your child any medication.
• Follow all instructions on the medication bottle and box. The correct dose and timing of the dose are important for the medication to work well.

Talk to your doctor before you give acetaminophen to a baby who is 3 months of age or younger. This is to make sure a young baby's fever is not a sign of a serious illness. The exception is if your baby has just had an immunization. Fevers sometimes occur as a reaction to immunizations. After immunizations, you can give your baby acetaminophen.

Dosage: Give acetaminophen every 4 hours as needed. Do not give more than 5 doses in a 24-hour period. Dosages are based on the child's weight regardless of whether oral or rectal products are used.

Acetaminophen products include acetaminophen drops, acetaminophen syrup, chewable acetaminophen, or rectal suppositories. These products come in standard concentrations for children.

Side effects of acetaminophen are rare.

• Nausea and rash are the most common.
• High doses of acetaminophen can contribute to liver damage.

Do not give your child acetaminophen if he or she has:

• Kidney disease.
• Liver disease.