If you find yourself wondering, ‘Can I give Calpol and Nurofen together?’ you’re not alone. As a healthcare professional, I encounter this question frequently, and it’s crucial to understand the nuances of combining these two common medications. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the active ingredients of Calpol and Nurofen, how they work, and the safe ways to use them to alleviate your child’s pain and fever.
Without any shadow of a doubt, the most common question I am asked is whether you can give Calpol and Nurofen together. To explain the answer fully it is important to first look at the active ingredients in these preparations, also what other products contain these active ingredients, and then how we can use them safely.
Calpol contains paracetamol. Paracetamol is used to treat two things in children – pain and high temperature/fever. The pain can be from many causes such as teething, sore throat, ear infection or injury.
What a high temperature is can be read about on my ‘Temperatures’ blog!
What’s important to note is that there are many other products on the market which also contain paracetamol. It is important to ensure these products are not given together to avoid an overdose of paracetamol.
Nurofen contains ibuprofen, which is a useful drug for the reduction of a high temperature and mild to moderate pain such as teething pain, headache, earache, sore throats and also sprains and strains. It works differently from paracetamol and needs to be avoided in people with a history of asthma or bronchospasms.
Ibuprofen is useful as whilst it also, like paracetamol, treats pain and fever, it additionally helps with swelling and inflammation. There are several products on the market which contain Ibuprofen and it is important to ensure these are not taken in combination with each other.
When selecting the appropriate medication to treat your child you should consider their symptoms carefully. The aim is to use the lowest dose of medication needed for the shortest length of time. If the symptoms are persistent or severe then it is important to speak to a healthcare professional about how your child is feeling.
For pain or fever, I would recommend trying a paracetamol-containing product first as it is a little gentler on the tummy. Paracetamol can be repeated every four to six hours to a maximum of four doses in 24 hours. It generally works within 20-30 minutes.
If you feel after approximately 60 minutes that your child’s symptoms have not improved, it is then safe to give a dose of an ibuprofen-containing medication at this time.
Ensure to read the leaflet attached or in the packaging to ensure that ibuprofen is safe for your child. Ibuprofen can be repeated every six to eight hours to a maximum of three doses in 24 hours. I would advise writing a note each time you administer a medication so you can be careful to ensure overdosing does not occur.
So, to cut a long story short – the answer to the question, can you give Calpol and Nurofen together, is – yes – Ibuprofen (Nurofen) and paracetamol (Calpol) can be taken together if needed and if they are suitable for your child. The recommendations are to only use antipyretic agents (calpol or nurofen) for a fever if your child appears distressed or unwell. Start with paracetamol and then if there is not an adequate reduction in your child’s symptoms you can give Nurofen in addition.
The correct dosage must be given at the correct time intervals and in the correct way to ensure safety. These medications should only be used when needed. Some people also find one more effective than the other so absolutely you can use ibuprofen instead of paracetamol first line if you find this the case.
I tend to recommend paracetamol first as it is easier on the stomach.
I hope you have found this article helpful and if you have any questions at all please don’t hesitate to contact me by sending a private message to the WonderCare Facebook page or by calling me at Milltown totalhealth Pharmacy in Dublin 6.
As a GP, I’m often asked whether it’s safe to give Calpol and Nurofen together. To provide a thorough answer, let’s start by examining the active ingredients in these preparations.
Calpol contains paracetamol, which is used to treat pain and high temperature/fever in children. The pain can be caused by various factors such as teething, sore throat, ear infection, or injury. On the other hand, Nurofen (ibuprofen) is also commonly used for pain relief and reducing fever.
What’s crucial to note is that there are numerous products on the market containing paracetamol, including Calpol. This raises concerns about potential interactions when combining these medications. As a general rule of thumb, it’s essential to be cautious when administering multiple medications with similar active ingredients.
Giving both Calpol and Nurofen concurrently can lead to an increased risk of adverse effects, particularly if the child is already taking other medications containing paracetamol or ibuprofen. This might result in unintended interactions, such as increased bleeding risk due to platelet inhibition or enhanced gastric irritation.
In cases where a child requires both pain relief and fever reduction, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. They can help determine the most appropriate course of treatment, taking into account the child’s age, weight, medical history, and any other medications they may be taking.
If your doctor does permit you to alternate between Calpol and Nurofen, make sure to carefully track which medicine you’ve given your child when and how much. This is crucial for avoiding overdosing or incorrect dosing. Always follow the dosage instructions provided with each medication, and ensure you’re using the correct strength for your child’s age.
In summary, while it may be tempting to combine Calpol and Nurofen for maximum relief, it’s essential to exercise caution due to potential interactions and adverse effects. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on managing your child’s fever and pain effectively.
Calpol, also known as paracetamol, is a common medication used to treat pain and fever in children. The recommended dosage and administration guidelines for Calpol vary depending on the child’s age and weight.
For infants from three months old to one year old, the typical dose of Calpol is 20-30mg per kilogram of body weight every four to six hours as needed. This can be given as a syrup or drops, and it’s essential to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully to ensure the correct dosage.
For children over one year old, the recommended dose of Calpol is 10-15mg per kilogram of body weight every four to six hours as needed. Again, it’s crucial to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult with your pharmacist or doctor if you’re unsure about the correct dosage for your child.
When administering Calpol, it’s important to use a proper medicine-measuring spoon or syringe to ensure accurate dosing. Do not use an ordinary teaspoon as this can lead to overdosing. Also, make sure to read the instructions on the packaging carefully and follow the recommended schedule of administration.
Another essential aspect to consider is that Calpol should not be given to children under two months old unless prescribed by your doctor. Additionally, it’s important to avoid giving your child more than four doses of Calpol in 24 hours, as this can increase the risk of overdosing.
Nurofen, also known as ibuprofen, is another common medication used to treat pain and fever in children. The recommended dosage and administration guidelines for Nurofen are slightly different from those for Calpol.
For infants from three months old to one year old, the typical dose of Nurofen is 2.5-5mg per kilogram of body weight every six to eight hours as needed. This can be given as a suspension or drops, and it’s essential to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully to ensure the correct dosage.
For children over one year old, the recommended dose of Nurofen is 5-10mg per kilogram of body weight every six to eight hours as needed. Again, it’s crucial to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult with your pharmacist or doctor if you’re unsure about the correct dosage for your child.
When administering Nurofen, it’s important to use a proper medicine-measuring spoon or syringe to ensure accurate dosing. Do not use an ordinary teaspoon as this can lead to overdosing. Also, make sure to read the instructions on the packaging carefully and follow the recommended schedule of administration.
It’s also important to note that Nurofen should not be given to children under three months old unless prescribed by your doctor. Additionally, it’s important to avoid giving your child more than three doses of Nurofen in 24 hours, as this can increase the risk of overdosing.
In summary, both Calpol and Nurofen require careful dosing and administration to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. It’s essential to follow the recommended guidelines based on the child’s age and weight, and to use proper medicine-measuring equipment to avoid overdosing. Always consult with your pharmacist or doctor if you’re unsure about the correct dosage for your child.
When it comes to treating fever and pain in children, it’s essential to seek advice from a healthcare professional before giving Calpol or Nurofen. This is particularly important if your child has any underlying health conditions or is taking medications that may interact with these products.
As the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health advises, giving the minimum necessary medication to achieve the best effect is crucial. This means not giving pain relief if your child has a fever but is otherwise happy and well.
Paracetamol and ibuprofen can be effective in relieving fever and pain in children, but it’s vital to monitor their response to these medications closely. If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
For further guidance on managing your child’s fever and pain effectively, consider utilizing resources such as helplines or online platforms. These can provide valuable advice and support to help you make informed decisions about your child’s care.
Remember that every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about the best course of treatment for your child.
In conclusion, when it comes to the question ‘Can I give Calpol and Nurofen together,’ the key lies in informed and cautious use. Both medications can be effective in managing your child’s fever and pain, under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Remember to follow the recommended dosages, monitor your child’s response closely, and seek medical advice if needed.
By maintaining a proactive approach to your child’s healthcare needs, you can ensure their well-being and provide them with the relief they require.