Both analgesics and antipyretics can be regarded as a great blessing of modern times. Not only is it easy to get into their possession, but you don't have to spend a lot of money to do that. Unfortunately, very often we forget that improperly used lacquers are not indifferent to our health. This is particularly important for the youngest patients.
Painkillers and fever suppressants for children - when and how to use them?
Pain, especially when accompanied by fever, is often difficult to bear. Thus, if we deal with teething, a viral infection that is just starting, or with a sore throat, it is recommended to give appropriate medicines to a child. Today there is no shortage of such products on the market that have been created with small patients in mind. They are in the form of suspensions, suppositories, syrups, tablets and powder sachets. The analgesics dedicated to the youngest children are characterized by their antipyretic effect, which is considered to be their additional asset, although at the same time it is the aspect that raises the most objections. It is impossible to ignore the fact that elevated body temperature is a signal mobilizing the immune system, although at the same time the same state causes that the synthesis of antibodies is impaired. It is precisely these controversies that make the position that the most popular today is that every case of childhood fever should be dealt with on the basis of separate rules that are specific only to the child. It is also important not to ignore a situation in which, despite the use of medication, the child still suffers from pain or fever after three days. In this case, it is advisable to see a doctor as soon as possible. The painkillers and analgesics themselves are usually available at a pharmacy, but it is not a problem to have them even if you do not have a prescription. They are usually divided into those in which ibuprofen is active and those in which the composition is based on paracetamol.
What is Ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is a representative of a group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, often referred to as NSAIDs. It has a wider range of applications than paracetamol. It has not only antipyretic and analgesic properties, but also anti-inflammatory. Therefore, it can help not only in the fight against pain, but also in the case of inflammation of the respiratory tract, ears and even sinuses. It is understood that 10 mg ibuprofen per kilogram of weight can be administered once every six to eight hours. It should not be forgotten that in the case of a child the total daily dose is about 30 mg per kilogram. This substance is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract light. This is happening not only quickly, but also almost completely.
Paracetamol and its specificity
Paracetamol here has both analgesic and antipyretic properties, but does not have anti-inflammatory properties. If you are dealing with children, the medication should be given at intervals of four to six hours, assuming that the maximum daily dose is 90 mg per kilogram of weight. Interestingly, the first administration usually takes place in an increased dose, also known as saturating dose. This is especially important when paracetamol is to be used for fever control.
