Paracetamol or acetaminophen is a fever reliever and pain reducer. It will not cause drowsiness or lead to irritability in your child. It can be used for babies over 3 months old.

Paracetamol has various brand names in India – Dolo,calpol,fevago,crocin etc, they are all the same.

When to use paracetamol ?

• Routine treatment of fever is not necessary.

• Use paracetamol If the child is uncomfortable with reduced activity level, decreased fluid intake.

• If the child is miserable with high fever.

• Do not treat with paracetamol if the child is happy and active with a moderately high temperature.

• Do not use paracetamol for preventing fever after immunisation , this will lead to a reduced immune response to the vaccine.

Paracetamol dosage

Give the correct weight adjusted dose in ml at 4-6 hourly intervals for pain or fever, maximum limit is 4 doses in 24 hours.

Use a measuring cup or syringe for an accurate dosage.

If the baby is less than 2-3 months old , consult your doctor for dosage.

If your child is unwell and running a fever due to a cold, its safe to begin treatment with paracetamol. Oral paracetamol has a long track record of safety. But do not use it regularly. Use this safe drug, sparingly and judiciously.