NICE guidance - use of paracetamol and ibuprofen for management of fever in child under 5 years old

Last reviewed 01/2018

  • tepid sponging is not recommended for the treatment of fever

  • children with fever should not be under dressed or over wrapped

  • consider using either paracetamol or ibuprofen in children with fever who appear distressed

  • do not use antipyretic agents with the sole aim of reducing body temperature in children with fever

  • when using paracetamol or ibuprofen in children with fever:
    • continue only as long as the child appears distressed
    • consider changing to the other agent if the child's distress is not alleviated
    • do not give both agents simultaneously
    • only consider alternating these agents if the distress persists or recurs before the next dose is due

  • antipyretic agents do not prevent febrile convulsions and should not be used specifically for this purpose

  • only consider alternating these agents if the distress persists or recurs before the next dose is due

For more details then consult full guidance (1).

Reference:

  1. NICE (May 2012). Feverish illness in children Assessment and initial management in children younger than 5 years