There is no child who has not caught a cold at least once, and some kids get sick quite often. Therefore, parents need to be extremely careful when choosing medicine, which will be effective and as safe as possible for child's body. In this article we will discuss a drug such as Paracetamol. It is prescribed to children quite often to reduce fever, but is it possible?
Medicine "Paracetamol" - pros and cons
This drug for a long time considered absolutely safe. However, according to recent research, the remedy may have side effect primarily on the children's liver. If you give Paracetamol to children under two years of age, this may cause light form asthma. In rare cases, an overdose of the drug can be fatal. But despite this, the World Health Organization recommends the drug “Paracetamol” for children as the most appropriate one for fever. The drug effectively eliminates pain and relieves fever, that is, eliminates the symptoms of the disease. The medicine acts quickly enough, so for children prone to seizures at fever, such a remedy may simply be necessary.
Paracetamol for children in tablets: instructions for use
Before giving this medicine to your child, you need to know the following:
The fever should be brought down when the thermometer shows 39 °C. Thanks to temperature, the body fights the disease. However, this does not apply to infants; at a temperature of 38 °C, they must be given an antipyretic medicine.
The drug should be used for no more than three days. If the fever does not subside, you should consult your doctor regarding further treatment.
Taking Paracetamol is contraindicated for children under 2 months of age.
In the absence of fever, an antipyretic agent cannot be used for pain relief or for prevention purposes.
The tablet of the drug must be crushed and mixed in a small amount of water. The drug "Paracetamol" in tablets is usually prescribed to children over 6 years of age. For babies infancy(from 3 months) the drug is most often used in the form of suppositories. From 6 months, the medicine can be given in the form of syrup, the required amount of which can be mixed in water or tea. The drug is also available in the form of a suspension, which is approved from 3 months. In special cases, on the recommendation of a doctor, a medicinal suspension can be given from the 1st month.
How much to give Paracetamol tablets to children?
The dosage of the medication depends on the weight and age of the child. Children aged 2 months to 15 years are recommended to take 10-15 mg at one time medicinal substance per 1 kg of weight. The daily dose, as a rule, does not exceed 60 mg per kilogram of weight. The drug begins to act within 30 minutes, sometimes after an hour. It is recommended to take the product every 6 hours, no more than 4 times a day. It is not recommended to give Paracetamol to children more often, as this will lead to an overdose.
Be careful when choosing an antipyretic drug for your child, strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations and the instructions in the instructions for the drug. Be healthy!
With the development of colds, the first sign in children is an increase in temperature. If pediatricians prohibit giving children antipyretics at elevated temperatures, then if the thermometer readings are above 39 degrees, you should definitely resort to medication. One of the most effective ways reduction high temperature is a medicine called Paracetamol. Is it possible to give children Paracetamol in tablets, at what age should it be used, as well as the specific dosage of the drug, we will find out further.
Dosage of Paracetamol tablets
Paracetamol for fever is available in three forms: tablets, syrup and rectal suppositories. All forms of the drug are intended to reduce high fever. Paracetamol in certain dosage forms should be given to a child depending on his age.
The main advantage of the drug in tablet form is its low cost, especially when compared with syrups. Many parents resort to medication in tablets only when the child turns 5 years old. It is at this age that a baby can swallow a pill without it getting stuck in the throat. Some parents are in no hurry to resort to using the drug in tablets, and give it from the age of 6.
The instructions for use indicate that children can be given the drug in tablet form at 2 years of age and older. However, it is important to note that at 2-3 years of age it is preferable to give syrup to babies, and before 2 years of age it is best to use rectal suppositories. It is possible for young children to take Paracetamol in tablet form if they have a fever, but the tablet should initially be crushed and then given to drink with sweetened water.
It is important to know! At high temperatures, children can be given Paracetamol no more than 4 times a day. The break between subsequent doses should be 4-6 hours. The duration of therapy should not be more than 3 days.
How to give Paracetamol tablets to children depends on their age and weight. Paracetamol for children with fever should be calculated based on the following dosage: per 1 kg of baby’s body weight, 10 mg of the drug is required. For a baby whose weight is 10 kg, 100 mg of the drug will be required.
Interesting to know! The drug can bring down a child’s temperature approximately 25-30 minutes after administration.
Dosage of Paracetamol 200 mg in tablet form
We have already found out whether Paracetamol can be given to children. It is only worth noting that if a child of 5-6 years old cannot swallow the tablet whole, it should be divided into parts or crushed into powder. It is not recommended to give the drug to infants in tablet form, so it is better to resort to rectal suppositories.
The drug Paracetamol 200 mg is very popular. The tablets are quickly absorbed by the body, so within 30 minutes the positive effect from its use. In addition, the tablets do not contain flavorings or dyes, which can harm the baby if taken orally. You can not only bring down the temperature with the drug, but also reduce pain symptoms for toothaches, headaches, neuralgia and osteochondrosis. Let’s find out in more detail how to lower the temperature with the help of the medicine in question.
- It is not recommended to give antipyretic tablets to children under two or three years of age. Moreover, if the doctor has prescribed the use of the drug for the baby in this form, then you can resort to such treatment.
- Children under the age of five or six years can be given the medicine in tablet form, but only at a dosage of 100 mg. Paracetamol can be given to a child at this age no more than 2 times a day.
- Children under 12 years of age are given the drug at a dosage of 200 mg. The dosage of Paracetamol depends primarily on weight, so before giving the medicine to your baby, you need to read the instructions.
- Older children from 12 years of age can be given Paracetamol at a dosage of 500 mg.
The instructions indicate that children under 12 years of age can be given tablets with a dosage of 500 mg, but the dose must be calculated correctly. It is also important to note the fact that before giving medicine at a temperature of 38 and above, you should consult a specialist. Your local or attending physician will tell you how to take it, how much of the drug you need, and how often you can take it.
It is important to know! You need to lower your baby’s temperature if the thermometer shows above 39 degrees. An adult can begin to reduce the fever if the mark exceeds 39-39.5 degrees.
Can children take medicine in tablets?
Doctors say that children can take pills if certain conditions are met.
- If the thermometer reading is above 38.5-39 degrees. For children under 3-4 years old, it is necessary to reduce the fever above 38-38.5 degrees.
- There is no need to rush to bring the fever down below 38. If the thermometer readings are above 38, you should initially try to use folk method, for example, wiping with a vinegar solution. If the fever continues to rise or lasts four hours or more after the parents have tried all methods to reduce it, then you can give this medicine.
- Is it possible for a child to take Paracetamol, and in what dosage should it be used for high fever, toothache and weakness. It can not only be given, but it is also necessary. If the drug does not bring down the fever, but at the same time painful sensations If teething has decreased, you should consult a specialist or replace the medication with Ibuprofen.
Paracetamol is excellent remedy in the fight against high fever in children of different ages. With age, the form of the drug can be changed, and the name of the drug can remain the same, but on one condition that the drug gives a positive effect.
Is it dangerous to overdose on a medicine?
The instructions indicate that in case of an overdose of the drug you should consult a doctor. We found out how to give Paracetamol to children, but why is an overdose so dangerous? this tool? In fact, Paracetamol is one of the safest antipyretic drugs. In case of a slight overdose, this will not affect the baby’s health in any way, especially if the medicine is used in a single dosage.
It is important to know! Before using Paracetamol in tablets for children with fever, you should familiarize yourself with the dosage of the medicine, and then select it according to the baby’s weight.
Paracetamol is a drug from the anilide group, which has a significant antipyretic and analgesic effect and a less pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. Widely used in the treatment of adult patients and in pediatrics (see all).
Paracetamol is the main metabolite of phenacetin, a substance previously widely used in the treatment of pain and hyperthermic syndrome, but prohibited due to dangerous side effects associated with toxic effects on the kidneys and liver.
The main advantage of paracetamol is its low toxicity and low risk of methemoglobin formation. However, long-term use of high doses of paracetamol can lead to adverse reactions in the form of nephro- and hepatotoxic effects. Paracetamol is included in the WHO list of essential drugs, as well as in the list of essential and vital necessary medications Government of the Russian Federation.
Pharmaceutical group: Anilides. Included in the NSAID group.
Pharmacotherapeutic group: antipyretics and analgesics.
International name of the drug: paracetamol.
Composition of the drug, release form, price
The drug is available in the following forms: tablets, syrup, suspension for children, suppositories
Pills |
Syrup |
Suspension |
Candles |
|
Main substance Paracetamol 500 or 200 mg |
120 mg of paracetamol in five ml of syrup or 2.4 g of paracetamol per 100 ml of the drug. | 120 mg of paracetamol in five ml of suspension or 2.4 g of paracetamol per 100 ml of the drug. | Paracetamol 100 or 500 mg |
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Excipients Potato starch, calcium sterate, low molecular weight polyvinylpyrrolidone, aerosil |
Propylene glycol, ethyl alcohol 96%, glycerin, sorbitol, propyl parahydroxybenzoate, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, purified water, raspberry food flavoring, Ponceau 4R | Methyl parahydroxybenzoate, glycerol, liquid sorbitol, xanthan gum, strawberry flavor, azorubine dye, sucrose, purified water | The fat base is solid until a candle is obtained |
|
Physicochemical characteristics White tablets or cream color flat with chamfer |
A transparent liquid of viscous consistency, pink in color, with a sweet taste and smell of raspberries. | Viscous liquid of pinkish color with strawberry flavor | White-cream suppositories |
|
Package Ten tablets in a cell package, in cardboard packs No. 10, 20 |
50 or 100 ml in a glass or polymer bottle with a measuring spoon, in a cardboard pack |
100, 200 ml of suspension in vials or bottles made of dark glass with a measuring syringe or spoon, in cardboard packs. |
5 suppositories in a polyethylene cell package, 2 packages in cardboard packs |
|
100 ml: 44 rub. |
|
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pharmachologic effect
Paracetamol blocks two forms (COX1 and COX2) of the enzyme cyclooxygenase and thereby inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins. The main effect is realized in the central nervous system, where paracetamol affects pain and thermoregulatory centers. In peripheral tissues, the effect of paracetamol on COX is neutralized by the action of cellular peroxidases, so the anti-inflammatory effect is little pronounced.
The lack of activation of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues determines the absence negative influence paracetamol on the gastrointestinal mucosa and water-salt balance. There is an assumption that paracetamol selectively blocks COX3, which is located only in the central nervous system, and does not affect COX enzymes located outside the brain, which explains such a pronounced antipyretic and analgesic effect. Therapeutic plasma concentrations of paracetamol are achieved at a drug dosage of 10–15 mg/kg.
Pharmacokinetics
Characterized by high absorption. The maximum effective concentration in the bloodstream of 5-20 mcg/ml is achieved within 30-120 minutes after administration. The drug penetrates the BBB into the brain.
Up to 97% of paracetamol is metabolized by the liver. About 80% of them are included in biosynthesis reactions with sulfates and glucuronic acid, resulting in the synthesis of inactive metabolites: paracetamol sulfate and glucuronide. Up to 17% of paracetamol undergoes hydroxylation reactions, leading to the formation of 8 metabolites that are active and conjugated with glutathione with the further synthesis of inactive metabolites. Lack of glutathione in the liver leads to the fact that the active metabolites of paracetamol begin to block the enzyme systems of liver cells and lead to their necrosis.
Half-life: from 1 to 4 hours. It is excreted in the form of inactive metabolites (97%) through the urinary system, about 3% of the drug is excreted in its original form.
Indications for use
Paracetamol is intended exclusively for symptomatic therapy, reducing the severity of pain and inflammatory reactions at the time of use. Does not affect the progression of the disease.
- Fever due to infections (see);
- Vaccination-induced hyperthermia;
- Pain syndrome different degrees severity (moderate and weak): arthralgia, neuralgia, myalgia, migraine, etc.;
- Dental and headache;
- Algodismenorrhea (see)
Contraindications
- erosions and ulcers of the gastrointestinal tract;
- stomach bleeding;
- inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases;
- chronic alcoholism;
- a combination of nasal and sinus polyposis, as well as bronchial asthma with intolerance to aspirin and other NSAIDs;
- severe renal failure;
- progressive kidney pathologies;
- active liver disease;
- rehabilitation period after coronary artery bypass surgery;
- hyperkalemia;
- hypersensitivity to paracetamol and its components;
- children up to 1 month;
- 3rd trimester of pregnancy.
Dosage
The time interval between doses of paracetamol should be at least 4 hours. Use no more than three days as an antipyretic and no more than five days to achieve an analgesic effect.
Paracetamol tablets
Should be taken orally, after meals, with water.
Adults and adolescents weighing >60 kg: 0.5 g up to 4 times a day. Maximum single dose paracetamol can be increased to 1 g, maximum daily dose– no more than 4 g.
- Children 6-12 years old: 0.2-0.5 g of paracetamol.
- Children 1-5 years old: 0.12-0.25 g each.
- Children from 3-12 months: 60-120 mg.
- Children 1-3 months: from 10 mg/kg.
Children's paracetamol syrup
For internal use before meals, frequency: 3-4 times a day. Shake before use.
- Children 6 months-3 years: 60 (half a teaspoon) – 120 mg (teaspoon).
- Children 12 months-3 years: 120 (tea boat) - 180 mg (one and a half teaspoons).
- Children 3-6 years old: 180 (one and a half teaspoons) – 240 mg (2 teaspoons).
- Children 6-12 years old: 240 (2 tsp) – 360 mg (3 tsp).
- Children over 12 years old: 360 (3 tsp) – 600 mg (5 tsp).
Paracetamol suspension for children
For oral administration before meals. The suspension must be shaken before use.
A single dose is no more than 10-15 mg per kilogram of body weight, the maximum daily dose is 60 mg/kg body weight. Frequency: three to four times a day.
- Children 1-3 months: ~ 50 mg paracetamol (2 ml suspension).
- Children 3-12 months: 60-120 mg paracetamol (2.5-5 ml suspension).
- Children 12 months-6 years: 120-240 mg paracetamol (5-10 ml suspension).
- Children 6-14 years old: 240-480 mg (10-20 ml suspension).
Candles (suppositories)
For rectal administration. Frequency: two to four times a day.
Average single dose: 10-12 mg/kg of paracetamol, maximum daily dose up to 60 mg/kg.
- Children 6-12 months: 0.5-1 suppository (50-100 mg paracetamol).
- Children 12 months-3 years: 1-1.5 suppositories (100-150 mg).
- Children 3-5 years old: 1.5-2 suppositories (150-200 mg).
- Children 5-10 years old: 2.5-3.5 suppositories (250-350 mg).
- Children 10-12 years old: 3.5-5 suppositories (350-500 mg).
Side effect
- Digestive system: dyspeptic phenomena in rare cases. Long-term therapy in high doses leads to hepatotoxic effects.
- Hematopoietic system. Rarely develop: leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, neutropenia, agranulocytosis.
- Hypersensitivity reactions: rarely develop skin rash, itching, urticaria.
Drug interactions
Groups of drugs and some drugs |
Possible effects |
| Inducers of microsomal liver enzymes, agents with hepatotoxic effects | Increased hepato toxic effect paracetamol |
| Anticholinergics | Reduced absorption of paracetamol |
| Oral contraceptives | Accelerating the elimination of paracetamol, reducing its analgesic effect |
| Uricosuric drugs | Reduced effectiveness of this group |
| Sorbents | Reduced bioavailability of paracetamol |
| Diazepam | Decreased excretion of diazepam |
| Zidovudine | Strengthening the myelosuppressive effect of this drug |
| Isoniazid | Increased toxic effect of paracetamol |
| Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Primidone | Reduced effectiveness of paracetamol |
| Lamotrigine | Acceleration of elimination of this drug from the body |
| Metoclopramide | Increased absorption of paracetamol |
| Probenecid | Decreased clearance of paracetamol |
| Rifampicin, Sulfinpyrazone | Increased clearance of paracetamol |
| Ethinyl estradiol | Acceleration of paracetamol absorption |
special instructions
Caution should be used in the treatment of patients with benign hyperbilirubinemia, impaired liver and kidney function, and the elderly. Long-term treatment with paracetamol should be monitored peripheral blood and liver conditions. When prescribing paracetamol for children, the instructions must be strictly followed - the recommended duration of treatment must not be exceeded!
Overdose
Toxic doses of paracetamol, which can lead to liver necrosis, are 10–15 g.
Paracetamol is given to a child for high fever, headache and toothache. He is considered safe medicine, because even with a three-fold overdose it does not cause complications. However, like any medicine, Paracetamol has its own specifics, and must be treated with caution. Before treatment, you should carefully study the instructions for use of Paracetamol, Special attention referring to the calculation of the dosage of tablets for children 1 year and older.
Composition and release forms of the drug
Paracetamol for children is an antipyretic and analgesic with a slight anti-inflammatory effect. Its effectiveness is especially high for viral infectious diseases; for bacterial diseases it helps little.
The therapeutic effect of the drug is based on inhibition of production chemical compounds, which are responsible for the development of inflammatory processes, stimulate an increase in temperature and the appearance pain syndrome. The analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect is achieved due to the effect of the drug on the cells of the central nervous system.
The advantage of the drug over other anti-inflammatory drugs is that it does not have any special irritant effect on the gastric mucosa. Paracetamol quickly enters the blood, where its highest concentration is achieved in the period from 30 minutes to one and a half hours - depending on the form of the drug. The drug is excreted from the body along with urine after processing in the liver within 4 hours.
The active substance of the drug bears the same name, it is also known as para-acetaminophenol. For children, Paracetamol is available in different forms:
- Candles - they contain components that are safest for children. The drug administered rectally is absorbed into the blood more slowly than when swallowed (an hour and a half), which is why the effect occurs later, but it is longer lasting. Doctors may prescribe suppositories for treatment one year old child and even babies from 3 months.
- Suspension – excipients include glycerol, sorbitol, flavorings and sucrose. Can be used from 1 month (only as directed by your pediatrician).
- Syrup – contains ethanol (96%), Excipients, flavorings, dyes. Maximum concentration in the blood is observed half an hour after ingestion. The product is recommended for ages from six months to 12 years.
- Tablets or capsules – available in dosages of 200 and 500 mg. Children can be given from 3 years of age (subject to the dosage).
- Effervescent tablets for preparing a solution.
IN Lately Paracetamol, produced in the form of sweet syrups and suspensions, has gained particular popularity. By taking these drugs, along with active medicinal components, the baby receives great amount flavorings, sweeteners, flavoring additives. They can provoke allergic reactions, while allergies to Paracetamol itself are very rare. This means that the ideal option for small children is candles.
Indications for taking Paracetamol tablets (200 and 500 mg)
Paracetamol is effective for:
- temperature caused by colds, flu, scarlet fever, measles, vaccinations, etc.;
- headaches, including those caused by overexertion;
- toothache (caries, teething, etc. (which medications can be given to a child for toothache?), etc.);
- pain manifestations not associated with inflammation;
- relief of symptoms of colds or flu such as fever, aches;
- inflammation of the middle ear (otitis) as a complex therapy.
Paracetamol is used as an antipyretic and pain reliever. When is the drug contraindicated?
Like any medicine, Paracetamol has contraindications. These include:
- allergy to the components of the drug;
- serious problems with the kidneys and liver, which are involved in processing and removing drugs from the body in urine;
- congenital hyperbilirubinemia, or Gilbert's syndrome - increased level bilirubin in the blood (a breakdown product of red blood cells);
- some types of severe infections (for example, sepsis);
- leukopenia (low white blood cell count);
- blood diseases;
- deficiency of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase;
- severe anemia;
- taking certain medications ( anticonvulsants, barbiturates, rifampicin, etc.);
- inflammation of the rectal mucosa (for the use of suppositories).
Instructions for use of tablets
Although Paracetamol is effective in relieving fever and headaches, if you have a serious illness, it will not reduce the temperature.
Dr. Komarovsky calls this medicine a kind of marker: if the fever has decreased after taking it, there is a high probability that the disease is not dangerous - it is a common ARVI. If there is no effect from the drug, the problem is serious, you should urgently call a specialist.
Dosage for children of different ages
Paracetamol tablets are allowed for children over three years of age. For adults, the maximum daily dose is 60 mg/kg. In what dosage is Paracetamol given to children:
- norm from 3 to 6 years – 100-200 mg at a time;
- from 6 to 12 years – 1-2 tables. (200-400 mg);
- adolescents and adults – 500 mg.
Before giving your baby a tablet, you should read the instructions and find out how much paracetamol it contains. If the doctor has prescribed a dose of 100 mg, the 200 mg capsule should be divided into 2 parts, the tablet containing 500 mg should be divided into 5 parts. A slight overdose is not dangerous.
How many times a day can you take the drug?
According to the instructions, children should drink Paracetamol every 4 hours. More frequent use is not recommended because better effect There will be no effect from increasing the dose multiplicity. Paracetamol is absorbed into the blood 30 minutes after entering the stomach and begins to act actively. The maximum concentration and positive effect are achieved after 2 hours - the temperature begins to decrease.
It is recommended to take the drug every 4 hours; less often - possible, more often - no
As soon as Paracetamol enters the child's blood, the kidneys and liver begin to process it and remove it from the body. After 4 hours, 50% of the substance leaves the body, which leads to a decrease in the effect of the drug. The medicine is completely eliminated after 8 hours. As you recover, the need for frequent medication administration disappears, so the interval can be increased to 5-6 hours.
Duration of treatment
The doctor should tell you how long the course of treatment with Paracetamol will last. At high temperatures, the product can be taken for no more than 3-5 days. Whether it is worth continuing to use the drug and what dose is prescribed per day is determined by the doctor. Irrational use of the drug can cause necrosis of liver cells, kidneys and other problems.
Long-term use of Paracetamol for headaches and toothaches is not advisable, since it can relieve symptoms, but not cure the underlying disease. Diseased teeth need to be treated as soon as possible, as they not only cause pain to the baby, but can also negatively affect growth permanent teeth. An unreasonable headache should alert you, as it may indicate serious illnesses and be a reason for further diagnosis.
Side effects
The use of Paracetamol rarely causes side effects. However, their absence cannot be completely ruled out after taking the medicine.
In some cases, the drug may cause gastrointestinal upset
They may appear:
- nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness;
- a decrease in the level of leukocytes, erythrocytes, platelets in the blood (extremely rare);
- liver pathologies;
- allergies;
- bronchospasm.
Overdose
The child should not take more than 60 mg per day active substance per kg body weight. A dosage of 150 mg/kg is toxic for a baby. This means that if a baby weighs 20 kg, he can die if he takes 3 g of paracetamol during the day.
Overdose causes side effects and signs of intoxication: pale skin, vomiting, sweating, loss of consciousness. If the liver fails, jaundice is possible, hepatic coma, death. Acute renal failure may occur, which will make itself felt by lower back pain, pancreatitis, arrhythmia, and the appearance of protein and blood in the urine.
Analogues of the drug
Paracetamol is included in many medicines– Coldrex, TeraFlu, Antigrippin, Panadol, Antiflu, Caffetin, etc. Their main differences are excipients, manufacturer, price.
If the medicine does not help, it is replaced with an analogue with another active component. Medicines based on ibuprofen have a similar effect - Nurofen, Ibufen, etc. In any case, you must remember: even the most harmless medications cannot be prescribed to yourself in order to avoid unpredictable consequences.
Children aged 3 years most often suffer from ARVI and other infections, therefore elevated temperature body is found very often among them. To combat this symptom, many doctors recommend using Paracetamol. How to properly give this medicine to babies, what dose should not be exceeded and what analogues can replace it?
Can it be given to a three year old child?
Paracetamol preparations are contraindicated only in the neonatal period, and are given to children 1-3 months old only if they have a temperature reaction to vaccination. In other cases, the medicine is approved from 3 months of age, so you can give Paracetamol to a 3-year-old child without fear.
Release form and mechanism of action
The drug is presented in several forms, among which the following are usually used in the treatment of children of three years:
- Rectal suppositories. They are distinguished by their white color, simple composition(except for paracetamol, in doses from 50 to 500 mg they contain only a fatty base), oblong in shape. This medication helps if the child has allergies or vomiting, but it begins to show its effect later than other dosage forms, so it is often used at night.
- Suspension. Such sweet drug orange or strawberry flavored contains paracetamol at a dose of 120 mg/5 ml, but also contains other ingredients (xanthan gum, sucrose, sorbitol, propylene glycol, etc.) that may provoke allergic reaction. Due to the liquid structure and the presence of a measuring syringe in the package (it can be replaced with a spoon), dosing this Paracetamol is very easy, and children in most cases swallow it without problems.
- In tablet form The drug is available in 200 and 500 mg doses for adults. For children solid form given from the age of six, so the use of this Paracetamol is not recommended at 3 years of age. However, in rare cases, when there is no other antipyretic medicine at home, the child can be given part of the tablet, checking the dose with the doctor. If the baby cannot yet swallow the medication, the tablet is crushed and diluted in a spoon with water, compote or juice.
The effect of any form of Paracetamol is associated with the ability of the main component of the drug to influence the centers of thermoregulation and pain in the brain. This effect is represented by the blocking of cyclooxygenase enzymes by paracetamol, as a result of which the temperature returns to normal and pain decreases.
Such effects determine the following indications for the use of Paracetamol:
- Fever (usually the drug is given at temperatures above +38.5 degrees).
- Pain syndrome of moderate or weak strength.
Features of application in childhood
It is advisable to give Paracetamol to children only after examination by a doctor, so that the use of such a medicine does not affect the determination of the correct diagnosis. Moreover, this is only symptomatic remedy, so it is usually given along with drugs that will also affect the cause of the fever or pain.
The duration of treatment with Paracetamol, depending on the indications, does not exceed 3-5 days. If you need to give the medication longer, this must be agreed with your doctor, because long-term use may affect hematopoiesis and the functioning of the child’s internal organs.
The drug can be given to the child at intervals of at least four hours. If the taken suspension or the given suppository does not bring down the temperature, use earlier than after 4 hours is unacceptable. In such situations, you need to consult a doctor and use another antipyretic drug as prescribed.
It is recommended to take the suspension an hour after meals, but if the temperature is very high, this recommendation is not taken into account (the drug is given regardless of diet). You should not dilute the medicine with water, since due to such dilution the volume of the medicine will be larger, and the child may not drink it completely. However, it is advisable to give plenty of additional fluids, as this will help fight the fever.
Among the contraindications to taking Paracetamol are intolerance to any of the components of the drug, liver disease, some hereditary diseases, gastrointestinal pathologies. Before giving medication to your baby, you should find out if he has any such health problems.
Do not exceed the dose of the drug yourself, combine it with other paracetamol-based medications, or store the suspension in a place where it could be discovered and accidentally drunk by a small child. In such situations, the risk of overdose increases, which can pose a danger to the health of a small patient.
Dosage
To determine a single dose for a three-year-old child, you need to know his weight in kilograms. It is multiplied by 10-15 and the number of milligrams of paracetamol per dose is obtained. For example, the weight of a particular baby is 14 kg. Such a child requires 140-210 mg of paracetamol at a time, so treatment begins with 6 ml of suspension or 3/4 of a 250 mg suppository is given.
The average single dose of the suspension can be taken from the table, which is in the annotation. Since the weight of 3-year-old children usually ranges from 12 to 18 kg, for children weighing 12-16 kg, 5 ml of medication is taken at one time, and for children weighing 16-18 kg, a single dosage of 10 ml is required.
The daily dosage of the drug is also calculated by weight. It is known that a child should not receive more than 60 mg of paracetamol per day per kilogram of his body weight. So, a patient weighing 14 kg can be given no more than 840 mg of medication per day. If a suspension is used, then this amount of the active ingredient is in 35 ml.
What to replace it with?
If suppositories and suppositories are not available at home or in the pharmacy, you can use another medicine instead, the effect of which is also provided by paracetamol. For example, a child can be given a Cefekon D suppository or a Panadol Baby suspension. Medicines that contain ibuprofen can also replace such drugs. They are also produced for children in suppositories and suspensions, given from the age of three months and recommended for high fever or pain.
In some cases, when an increase in temperature poses a danger to the child, and Paracetamol cannot cope with the fever, they resort to a mixture of drugs called lytic. It includes antipyretic drug(often this is Analgin) and antihistamine(most often Suprastin is chosen). If the child is pale and his limbs are cool, then an antispasmodic, for example, No-shpa, is added to these two drugs.
The use of such a mixture quickly and effectively lowers the temperature and improves the child’s condition, but is not recommended without a doctor’s prescription. After checking with the pediatrician about the dosage suitable for a three-year-old child, these medications are given in tablets. If there is a need for injection, it is better to entrust the injection to the medical staff by calling an ambulance.
For information on which antipyretics to use, see the following video.
Among popular means To combat fever and pain in children, there are tablets containing paracetamol as the active substance. It is considered the most effective and safe for the child’s body.
Paracetamol-based drugs have three main properties: they relieve fever, inflammation and pain.
Advantages of the drug:
- Fights high body temperature during colds, ARVI or flu. It can be given to children aged 2 months, after first reducing the permissible dose.
- The decrease in temperature begins quickly and has a long-lasting effect - no further increase is observed.
- In some children, high fever may be accompanied by seizures. Paracetamol is also allowed for such unpleasant symptoms.
- Reduces or eliminates pain. For example, dental or headache.
- Other medications can be given at the same time. Nurofen contains ibuprofen as an active ingredient, so alternating them is allowed.
It should be taken into account that paracetamol eliminates only the symptoms of the disease, but is not intended for its treatment. The main cause of pain or fever should be identified and children treated with other drugs.
Dosage of the drug
Paracetamol comes in three main forms: suppositories, tablets and syrups. You can buy a product at a pharmacy where this active substance is in pure form- Panadol for example. Panadol tablets, in addition to the active substance, contain sodium bicarbonate, which creates an alkaline environment in the body. Thanks to this, Panadol works faster.
Candles
They are administered rectally - into anus child. Before the procedure, you must first wash your hands. Place the child, turn him on his side, bend his legs and press them to his tummy. Slowly and carefully introduce the suppository. The active substance is absorbed by the intestinal walls and has a rapid effect at high temperatures. For children under three months, the dosage is selected only by a doctor..
At the pharmacy you can find the following dosage of the drug:
- from 3 months to a year, 0.08 gram suppositories are prescribed;
- from 1 year to 3 years – 0.17 grams;
- from 3 years to 6 – 0.33 grams;
- starting from 6 years and older, two suppositories of 0.33 grams are prescribed.
You should not use more than 4 suppositories per day.
Pills
They are allowed for children starting from two years old. The child is given medicine, previously crushed and diluted in water. Children's paracetamol tablets are available in a dosage of 200 mg:
- from 2 to 6 years, 1/2 tablet is prescribed at a time;
- from 7 to 12 years, one full tablet is allowed;
- Children over 12 years of age are allowed to take two tablets at a time.
In some cases this form Can also be taken by children up to one year old. Especially when it comes to a very high temperature with the appearance of seizures. In such cases, the use of the medicine is allowed in the following dosage:
- from birth to 3 months, the dosage is 10 mg per kilogram;
- from 3 months to a year, the maximum daily dose is 120 mg;
- from one year to 2 years, the maximum daily dose is 150 mg.
Syrup
This dosage form has a liquid consistency and pleasant taste, so children swallow it easily. Syrup can be given as early as two months. Sometimes doctors, taking into account the child’s condition at the time of illness, can prescribe syrup in the first weeks of life.
The kit includes a convenient dispenser syringe or measuring spoon, with which the exact amount of suspension is measured. The drug should not be diluted with water; it is better to give the child something to drink after taking it.
The exact dosage is drawn according to the divisions on the syringe:
- from birth to 6 months, the dosage is calculated by the attending physician;
- from 6 months to one year, the maximum dosage is 5 mg, the minimum is 2.5 mg;
- up to 3 years, the dosage is 5 – 7.5 mg;
- from 3 to 6 years – the maximum dosage is 10 mg;
- from 7 to 12 years – about 15 mg.
The medicine begins to act within 30 minutes after administration. At high temperatures, the syrup is given for no more than three days. As a painkiller, the drug can be taken for up to five days.
An analogue of the drug Paracetamol is Panadol. It is approved for children aged 3 months and older. Panadol Baby can be used to relieve fever, inflammation and pain. Can also be used after vaccinations.
Features of application
Before giving medicine to a child, you should consult your pediatrician. He will appoint correct dosage and will tell you about the rules of admission.
- The dosage of the drug depends on the age and weight of the child.
- Paracetamol tablets should be given to relieve fever at intervals of 6 hours. No more than four times a day.
- In children under the age of one year, the temperature should be reduced if it rises above 38 degrees.
- Paracetamol should not be given to infants for more than three days. Their internal organs are not yet fully formed, which creates an extra load on the liver.
- This antipyretic should not be given for prophylaxis.
- For a small child, the tablet must first be dissolved in water.
- You should not use a tablet intended for adults - it is impossible to accurately determine the dosage.
- Nurofen has more irritating effect on the stomach than Panadol. Therefore, it is better to stop at the last drug.
Tips for taking medications that contain paracetamol
- Exist various shapes release of this active ingredient. It can be in candles, syrups or in the form of a suspension. They are best suited for children under one year old.
- To reduce harmful effects on the liver, the medicine should be given after meals.
- A dosage of 150 mg per kilogram of weight is dangerous for a child’s body.
- An overdose can be recognized by the following symptoms: the skin becomes pale, nausea and vomiting appear. In this case, you need to urgently consult a doctor.
Sometimes, when the temperature is high and falls heavily, children are prescribed two drugs at the same time: Nurofen and Paracetamol. These drugs are given at intervals. Nurofen acts quickly and the effect is longer lasting.
You can combine Nurofen with paracetamol at the same time. In this case, half the dose is taken from each drug.
Contraindications
- Overdose of the drug is not allowed and frequent use, which negatively affects the functioning of the liver. Nausea and vomiting appear.
- Individual intolerance to the components of the drug. Allergic reactions may occur.
- For children under two years of age, paracetamol should be given with caution - the drug can cause asthma.
- Do not give two paracetamol-based medications at the same time. This will lead to poisoning of the body. Can be given with other antipyretics, for example, Nurofen.
- An overdose can occur if the interval between doses of the medication is not observed. It's better to combine drug treatment with folk remedies.
- The drug is contraindicated for diseases such as anemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and disorders of the kidneys and liver.
If at least one symptom appears, then this medicine should be replaced with another. Nurofen is less likely to cause allergies and causes less harm internal organs. Just like paracetamol, Nurofen is available in the form of suppositories, tablets and syrup.
There are many medications in pharmacies that contain paracetamol. Panadol is available in tablets, suppositories and syrups. Panadol Baby is specially produced for the little ones
Do not forget that all medications must be kept away from children. It is better to store medications for adults separately from children, so that during the period of illness the child does not mix up medications due to increased anxiety.
Before giving paracetamol to a child, you should consult your doctor. It is he who will tell you which dosage form is best to choose and whether it is worth combining it with other antipyretics. Calculate the exact permitted dosage. Only by following the rules and recommendations can you reduce side effects and overdose.
When a child has a fever, the first medicine that parents use to stabilize the condition is paracetamol, and this is not without reason.
The World Health Organization included this drug in the list of the most effective, safe and cost-effective medicines.
Let's take a closer look at the instructions for using Paracetamol tablets for children (200 and 500 mg): recommended dosages for fever, is it possible to give the medicine to a child at all and how much, what to do if the norm is exceeded?
Description and action
Paracetamol is not a new pharmaceutical. It has been used for treatment since 1893. This is one of the safest non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The drug has almost no effect on cyclooxygenase, or COX, produced in peripheral organs and tissues. That's why it has fewer side effects than other NSAIDs.
So, the medicine does not irritate the gastric mucosa, does not lead to disruption of water-mineral metabolism.
At the same time, the drug affects COX, which is produced by the brain, which determines the antipyretic and analgesic properties, the ability to influence inflammatory processes the drug has almost none.
Paracetamol is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, therefore tableted dosage forms along with rectal suppositories most preferred.
The drug acts quickly, and within 30 minutes after administration its highest concentration is observed inside. The effect lasts up to 4 hours.
The lack of effect when using Paracetamol is a reason to immediately seek medical help.
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Release form and composition
The drug is available in tablets of 0.2 g and 0.5 g(200 and 500 mg). This form is recommended for children over 6 years of age due to possible overdose.
Can be used from 2 years of age, although other forms are preferable at this age.
By physical properties It is a pure white or creamy, pinkish crystalline powder that is soluble in alcohol and insoluble in water.
Indications
The drug is used if:
- the temperature rises to 38 °C and above (age up to 5 years), to 38.5 °C (age after 5 years) and lasts for at least 4 hours;
- complaints of toothache, headache, muscle pain.
Paracetamol is effective for viral infections(ARVI).
The product is also used for chicken pox, measles, flu, rubella, teething, after injuries and burns.
It doesn't help with bacterial infections, complications of ARVI, the effect is short-lived or absent.
Contraindications
The list of contraindications is small in comparison with other drugs. This includes:
- individual intolerance;
- age up to 2 years;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with the formation of ulcers and erosions, gastric bleeding, inflammation, active bleeding;
- progressive pathologies of the kidneys, liver, severe forms of failure of these organs;
- acetyl intolerance salicylic acid or other NSAIDs;
- hyperkalemia ( increased content potassium in the blood).
How much and how to give
Maximum course of treatment is:
- up to 6 years - 3 days;
- after 6 years - 5 days.
What dose of Paracetamol tablets is needed for children and how to take the medicine correctly?
When prescribing doses, they are guided not by age, but by the weight of the baby. 10–15 mg of active ingredient is prescribed per 1 kg.
Thus, a single dosage of Paracetamol in tablets for children weighing 10 kg is 100–150 mg (0.1–0.15 g), or 1/2–3/4 tablets with a dosage of 200 mg (0.2 g).
Re-appointment should be no earlier than after 4-5 hours. 4–5 doses are allowed per day.
Safe daily dose - up to 60 mg/kg body. This means that a child weighing 10 kg should not be given more than 3 tablets of 200 mg per day.
For teenagers over 12 years of age who weigh more than 40 kg, maximum single dose - 1 g (5 tablets of 0.2 g), daily - 4 g (20 tablets of 0.2 g).
Directions for use, special instructions
The drug is given orally. After eating, 1–2 hours must pass, otherwise absorption will slow down. Drink a lot clean water. If the child is small, then the tablet is crushed into powder.
Paracetamol is an emergency medicine that does not cure, but only eliminates the manifestations of the disease. If the cause of the disease is not eliminated, the fever and pain will return.
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Reception features
The question of what dose of paracetamol to give a child in tablets must be decided after consultation with a doctor. When treating, the following features of admission are taken into account:
- if there is liver disease, the dose is reduced;
- when using other drugs simultaneously, you need to make sure that they do not contain paracetamol;
- Do not give your child alcohol-containing medications, as alcohol enhances the absorption of the medication.
Overdose
Taking the drug in a single dose of more than 150 mg/kg of the child’s body weight causes severe, and in some cases fatal, liver damage.
Stages of poisoning:
For development liver failure indicate:
- neuropsychiatric disorders (feels sleepy, dizzy, speech impaired, hallucinations);
- pain in the right side under the ribs;
- swelling, abdominal enlargement;
- jaundice;
- bleeding;
- heart rhythm disturbances;
- failure of the function of other organs.
Death from an overdose occurs within 3–5 days.
In case of overdose, wash the stomach, give to the patient Activated carbon, cause ambulance. The antidote for paracetamol is acetylcysteine.
In case of liver failure, hospitalization is carried out, treatment is symptomatic. IN severe cases a liver transplant may be required.
Children suffer from poisoning more easily than adults, especially those under 6 years of age., due to the characteristics of metabolism. In mild cases, treatment is carried out at home.
How can an overdose occur?
Drug dosage 0.2 mg is safe. So, for a child weighing 10 kg to become poisoned, he needs to take 1.5 g of the drug per day orally, which is 7.5 tablets.
Exceeding the dose occurs for several reasons:
- parents in a hurry did not pay attention to the content of the active substance;
- other drugs were given at the same time with paracetamol;
- increased the frequency of administration;
- the baby accidentally took the medicine on his own because it was in an accessible place.
Side effects
Although Paracetamol is well tolerated in most cases, it causes side effects:
IN last years scientists started talking about harm and toxicity.
Studies have shown that children who were frequently prescribed paracetamol at 1–3 years of age develop allergic diseases -
Eczema, allergies.
Safety is maintained with infrequent use.
There is also evidence that at long-term use paracetamol more than 1 tablet per day, If total taken medication is 1000 or more tablets over a lifetime, the risk of developing severe forms analgesic nephropathy (kidney disease), which leads to terminal renal failure(complete loss of kidney function).
Drug interactions
Paracetamol interacts with other drugs, which may affect the safety of therapy.
The following effects may be observed:
- increased harmful effects on the liver, decreased antipyretic effect of paracetamol - in combination with barbiturates of antiepileptic drugs, rifampicin;
- enhancing the effect of coumarin derivatives, salicylic acid, caffeine, codeine;
- an increase in the level of methemoglobin - when used simultaneously with phenobarbital.
Do not combine Paracetamol tablets with other means that contain this active ingredient (Parafex, Paravit, Cold-flu, Coldrex and others).
average price
The average price of Paracetamol 0.2 g, 10 tablets is 6 rubles.
Storage conditions and periods
The expiration date is indicated on the packaging(usually 36 months). Store the drug at a temperature no higher than 25 °C, choosing a place inaccessible to minors.
A prescription is not needed to purchase the medicine.
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Surely, there are not many people who would not get sick at least once in their lives. People get sick especially often colds in the autumn-winter period, during the rainy and cold seasons. And the sensations from the disease cannot be classified as pleasant: sore throat, headaches, runny nose, cough and high temperature. In this state it is impossible to work or rest. And even nighttime is difficult due to fever and congestion. respiratory tract. And children suffer from colds and flu even more severely than adults.
Operating principle
Fortunately, there is a medicine that relieves the suffering of millions of people with colds around the world every day. This remedy is paracetamol. Paracetamol belongs to the class of analgesics and antipyretics. In addition, it has a weak anti-inflammatory effect.
By chemical structure it is a derivative of aniline and is one of the main metabolites of phenacetin, a substance previously widely used as an analgesic and antipyretic. The action of paracetamol is to influence the pain centers and temperature regulation in the brain and to suppress the synthesis of prostaglandins - physiologically active substances that also affect the increase in temperature and pain sensitivity.
The drug begins to act very quickly, within an hour after administration. It easily penetrates the blood-brain barrier. Most of substances are metabolized in the liver. Paracetamol can also be used as a pure analgesic to relieve pain not associated with the inflammatory process.
Currently, paracetamol is sold not only in its pure form, but also as part of other antipyretic and painkillers, such as Antigrippin, Panadol, Theraflu, Fervex and some others.
Misconceptions about the drug
Many people have misconceptions about the drug and its analogs and how they should be used.
First, understand that paracetamol does not treat colds or flu. It does not affect the viruses or bacteria that cause these diseases, and does not improve immunity. It is intended only to relieve the symptoms of the disease - pain and high fever. The anti-inflammatory effect of the drug is also extremely weak.
Secondly, paracetamol and its analogues are not intended for prevention infectious diseases. Considering a large number of side effects of the drug, such “prevention” and constant use of the drug (over a week) can lead to severe poisoning. Taking paracetamol outside of the period of illness is unacceptable.
Thirdly, it is not always necessary to lower the temperature during illness with the help of a drug. It is worth remembering that elevated temperature is a protective reaction of the body that helps it fight infection. Artificially lowering the temperature only complicates immune system task. As a result, the illness lasts longer than usual. Therefore, it is recommended to use antipyretics only at temperatures exceeding +38ºС, when hyperthermia becomes dangerous for the body.
Description
The main form of release is paracetamol tablets. The dosage of the active substance in tablets can be different - 200, 250, 325 or 500 mg.
There are also dosage forms such as paracetamol capsules, paracetamol syrup and paracetamol suspension for children. What distinguishes a suspension from a syrup is that it does not contain sugar. paracetamol for children in the form of syrup and paracetamol suspension contain 2.4% of the active substance. Paracetamol rectal suppositories (suppositories for children) are also available. In all cases, the drug is accompanied by a detailed leaflet, which is recommended to be studied before use.
Paracetamol has several indications for use:
- Pain of various origins
- Neuralgia
- Fever in infectious diseases
- Vaccination-induced hyperthermia
Contraindications:
- Individual intolerance
- Severe liver and kidney dysfunction
- 1st trimester of pregnancy
- Chronic alcoholism
In the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy, the drug should be used with caution and under the supervision of a physician. Since paracetamol enters breast milk, then it is not recommended to use it during lactation. If the drug is still necessary, the child should receive artificial feeding.
Paracetamol has quite a lot of side effects:
- Risk of anemia, changes in platelet and white blood cell counts
- Tachycardia
- Liver and kidney dysfunctions
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain
- Allergic reactions
If the dosage exceeds the maximum allowable, this can lead to severe kidney and liver dysfunction and gastric bleeding.
Composition
In addition to the active substance of the same name, the tablets contain a number of auxiliary components:
- starch
- stearic acid
- lactose
- calcium stearate
- gelatin
- povidone
- Primogel
The suspension contains, in addition to the main substance:
- flavoring
- dye
- glycerol
- sorbitol
- xanthan gum
In addition to the active substance, candles use solid fat.
Interaction with other substances
It is not recommended to take paracetamol simultaneously with barbiturates, isoniazid, zidovudine due to an increased risk of liver damage. Rifampicin reduces therapeutic effect drug, and activated carbon reduces its bioavailability.
Simultaneous use of the drug with acetylsalicylic acid, codeine and caffeine enhances the therapeutic effect of these drugs.
Paracetamol and alcohol
Recently, more and more data has been accumulating about how dangerous it is to take alcohol at the same time as taking the drug. Paracetamol is already not very friendly to the liver, but when used simultaneously with ethanol, the hepatotoxic effect of the drug increases several times. Therefore, under no circumstances should you drink alcohol, even in moderate doses, during treatment with the drug! It is not uncommon for people to end up in the hospital with severe liver damage after taking a cold pill and a glass of wine within a few hours. So you should choose one of two - either paracetamol or alcohol.
Instructions for use for adults
Unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor, when using tablets, adults should take the drug three to four times a day. Dosage – 350-500 mg. The maximum daily dose is 4 g, the maximum single dose is 1.5 g.
It is best to take the drug 1-2 hours after meals. Taking the drug immediately after a meal slows down its absorption into the blood.
The duration of treatment should not exceed 7 days.
Instructions for use for children
The dosage when taken by children should take into account the child’s body weight. It is recommended to calculate the dose so that it is 10 mg/kg body.
In this case, we must assume that the 5 ml suspension and syrup for children contain 120 mg of the active substance.
The optimal dosage looks like this:
- 3-12 months ¬– 60-120 mg
- 1-5 years – 150-250 mg
- 5-12 years – 250-500 mg
Before using paracetamol for children, you must read the instructions. Paracetamol syrup is given to children based on their weight and age. Possible dosage regimen:
- 2-6 years - 5-10 ml
- 6-12 years - 10-20 ml
- over 12 years - 20-40 ml
Children's paracetamol, according to the instructions, is taken 3-4 times a day. The interval between doses should not be less than 4 hours. The maximum duration of treatment in children should not exceed 3 days.
Paracetamol suppositories can also be used to treat children. The instructions recommend the following single doses:
- 6-12 months – 0.5-1 suppository (50-100 mg)
- 1-3 years – 1-1.5 suppositories (100-150 mg)
- 3-5 years – 1.5-2 suppositories (150-200 mg)
- 5-10 years – 2.5-3.5 suppositories (250-350 mg)
- 10-12 years – 3.5-5 suppositories (350-500 mg)
Suppositories should not be used for more than three days.
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