Paracetamol
syrup is prescribed for infants and children suffering from fever
and other minor illnesses. But, it should be used in the right dosage; otherwise
it may be less effective or dangerous. The right dose of paracetamol drug for a
child depends on its weight but not on its age. The normal dose per kilogram
weight is 15 gm. It means if a baby’s weight is 10 kg, the exact dosage should
be 150 mg.
This minimum gap between the two
doses should be 4 hours and can be taken 4 times per day if required. Without
the doctor’s advice one should not exceed the dose. No child should be given a total of more than
90 mg/ kilogram in a day.
The main uses of paracetamol
syrup are for pain relief from fever and pain. Paracetamol is always
helpful in a raised temperature condition. In most of the cases, it provides
faster relief to sufferer but in many cases, it can make the affected person
feel uncomfortable for 2-3 days. This is often the case with infants and can result
into very disturbed nights for parents.
Do not treat the happy children
with paracetamol. It is suitable when kid is uncomfortable like reduced
activity level, cranky and taking less fluid. Paracetamol has analgesic (pain
relief) and antipyretic (reduces fever) properties but no anti-inflammatory. It
is less irritant to the stomach as compared to Ibuprofen. Use Ibuprofen only if
there is no relief from paracetamol.
