Signs that your child is in pain Older children can often tell you that they have pain, although some children might not be able to tell you exactly where their pain is.
Younger children may show you that they have pain by: crying or screaming pulling a face changes in their sleeping or eating patterns becoming quiet and withdrawn refusing to move, or being unable to get comfortable. Paracetamol can be used for mild to moderate pain in babies over one month old, children, adolescents and adults. However, if too much paracetamol is given to a child for too long, it may harm the child.
Ibuprofen can be used for mild to moderate pain in children, adolescents and adults. It should not be used in children under three months of age, or be given to children with bleeding disorders. Never give aspirin for pain to your child if they are under 12 years, unless it is advised by your doctor. It can cause a rare but serious illness called Reyes Syndrome.
Giving paracetamol Giving ibuprofen How much to give: Paracetamol for children comes in several different strengths: for babies, for young children and for older children. Paracetamol is also produced and sold by many different companies, and different brands may have different names e.
Panadol, Panamax, Dymadon. Always give the dose that is written on the bottle or packet according to your child's weight. If your baby or child is taking any other medicine, check that the medicine does not also have paracetamol in it.
Do not give more paracetamol if your child has had some in other medicine. How often can it be given? Paracetamol can be given every four to six hours — no more than four times in 24 hours. If you need to give your child paracetamol for more than 48 hours, you should take them to see a doctor. How much to give: Ibuprofen for children comes in several different strengths: for babies, for young children and for older children.
Ibuprofen is also produced and sold by many different companies, and different brands may have different names e. After taking ibuprofen tablets or capsules you should start to feel better after 20 to 30 minutes, however if you are using ibuprofen gel this can take up to two days of usage to start working. Ibuprofen works by reducing the hormones in our bodies that cause pain and swelling. Co-coamol is a combination of two different painkillers, paracetamol and codeine.
The drug is available in three strengths, each of these contain mg of paracetamol. The lowest strength can be bought in your local pharmacy; however a GP will need to prescribe the higher strength to you. Taking too much co codamol can be harmful so it is important that you take the right dosage and do not increase your dose. It can also be addictive so it is important that is only taken for three days, or as suggested by your doctor or pharmacist.
For dosage information always read the packaging and included patient leaflet, one of our expert pharmacists or your doctor will also be able to offer advice. Taking paracetamol and ibuprofen together is safe to do if you are over the age of However children should not be given these medicines together unless you have been told to do so by a healthcare practitioner.
You can take ibuprofen and paracetamol at the same time or space them apart, although ibuprofen is best taken with food or after you have eaten. Your pharmacist will also be able to offer advice, and help you make sure that you are not exceeding the recommended daily doses. Many injuries and illnesses cause children pain. Older children can often tell you where their pain is, but in younger children it may not be as obvious.
The following might suggest your child is in pain 1 :. If your child looks unwell, or in moderate to severe pain they should be reviewed by a doctor to determine the cause.
Fever in most children is when their body temperature rises above 38 o C and is usually caused by an infection. It is a normal process that helps the body's immune system fight the infection.
Many children cope well with low grade temperatures e. If your child is miserable with a fever, then giving paracetamol or ibuprofen can often make them more comfortable and more willing to drink - which is important to remain hydrated.
Many parents get concerned when a temperature does not come down after giving medication. Some illnesses cause inflammation redness, heat and swelling and may benefit more from ibuprofen as it is an anti-inflammatory.
Common conditions we see at Night Doctor include injuries, middle ear infections and throat infections such as tonsillitis. The quick answer is yes, you can. Paracetamol and ibuprofen do not react with each other to harm your child. Taking both medicines together You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen at the same time or spaced apart.
Check if you still need both medicines If you need to take painkillers for longer than 3 days, you should see a GP or pharmacist for advice. Further information: Can I take paracetamol or ibuprofen with cough or cold medicines? Can I give my child painkillers? Can I give my child paracetamol and ibuprofen together?
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