Is paracetamol safe? What to know before you give paracetamol to little ones
Paracetamol is the most commonly given medication to children. You most likely have a bottle in your cupboard right now! It is widely used to help babies and children with pain or have a fever. Incorrectly using paracetamol can harm your child by causing damage to their liver. The majority of paracetamol poisonings are from parents or caregivers not giving paracetamol correctly, not a one-off accidental overdose.
What is Paracetamol?
Paracetamol can safely be given to help children with pain and reduce fever. It works by blocking specific pain and fever sensors in their brain. Once you have given your child paracetamol it takes around 30 minutes to work and lasts around 4 - 6 hours.
When Should You Give Paracetamol?
Knowing when to use paracetamol is crucial for parents. Here are the key TIMES:
Fever: Paracetamol can be given to children who have a fever over 38°C AND are miserable.
Pain Relief: Paracetamol can help mild to moderate pain, for example teething, headaches or minor injuries.
After the Bexero immunisation: The Bexero immunisation is more likely to give children a fever, so it is recommended they have a dose of paracetamol. But chat with your practice nurse or GP first. For other immunisations, paracetamol isn't recommended unless they have a fever or are uncomfortable.
Can You Give Paracetamol with iBuprofen?
Ibuprofen is as safe as paracetamol but is no more effective. Like paracetamol, ibuprofen is used to treat pain, and fever but also helps with swelling. It's recommended to give paracetamol first when children have pain or fever but it is safe to give them together, just remember to keep track of when each medication is due. Don’t give ibuprofen to children before seeing a doctor if they’re under 3 months, have signs of dehydration or have asthma.
What Are the Dangers of Paracetamol?
Paracetamol, when given correctly is safe. However, it can cause paracetamol toxicity and liver damage if a too big dose is given regularly or it is given too often over the safe limit. There is also a risk of a one-off overdose when children find and take tablets.
Checklist for Giving Paracetamol Safely
Remember these 4 things when giving paracetamol to your little one
Right dose: Make sure the dose is right for your child's weight, check the dose with your family doctor, local pharmacist or use the paracetamol calculator on Healthify if you are not sure. Paracetamol comes in two different strengths, so double-check which one you are using. Remember, a higher dose over the recommendation will not be more effective.
Accurate measuring: Use a syringe or medicine cup NOT a teaspoon.
Keep a record: Give paracetamol only every 4-6 hours and only FOUR doses within 24 hours. Write down when you have given a dose and check the time of the last paracetamol dose before you give the next one.
Short Duration: If you need to give paracetamol for longer than 48 hours see your child's doctor.
Tips for Giving Paracetamol
Make giving paracetamol easier with these tips
Getting out the bubble - Draw up more than you need, hold the syringe tip pointing upwards, tap out the bubble and push down on the plunger until you have the dose you need.
Use a dummy and give the medication down the side of their mouth as they suck, or use the teat from a bottle on top of a syringe.
Mix the paracetamol with a SMALL amount of milk or juice - but ask your doctor first. Don’t mix with a whole bottle incase your baby doesn't drink it all.
Encourage older children to have some independence in how they take the medication - letting them hold the syringe can help.
Numb their tongue and taste buds with an iceblock.
Offer a glass of milk or juice right after having paracetamol.
If children refuse to take paracetamol, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it can be prescribed in a rectal form.
How to use a bottle teat to give paracetamol with a syringe
Signs of Paracetamol Overdose and What to Do
Signs of a paracetamol overdose
Nausea & vomiting
Abdominal pain
Not wanting to eat
If you think you have given too much paracetamol or your child has accidentally ingested a large dose, call NZ Poisons Centre 0800 POISON (0800 764 766) immediately!
Paracetamol can help children who are in pain or have a fever, but it is important to remember to use it correctly to prevent harm.
Book a first aid course with & Breathe today. Learn how to recognise serious illness in your children and gain the confidence to take the right actions.
