In the Bristol-based trial 156 children (Aged 6months to 6years) were involved and it showed that ibuprofen decreased temperature faster than paracetamol.
A study from the British Medical Journal also says that changing the drug may prove helpful and it has been already recommended by some GPs. However, in line with official guidance, some experts seemed to advise against this as they showed concern to relative ease with which children can get an overdose.
In young children fever is quite common and it affects seven out of ten preschool children every year.
The fever often proves quite miserable for the child and makes parents worried as well. Most of the time, many fevers settle by themselves but some are the cause of serious infections like pneumonia.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence published guidelines last year which suggested that either ibuprofen or paracetamol could be used for children distressed or unwell with fever.
It also says that the two drugs shouldn’t be alternated or given together as there is lack of evidence in this connection.
In the trial, the researchers involved children who had slight temperature between 37.8C to 41C because of some illness that could be managed at home without any clinical aid.
Related Links:
- The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
- Paracetamol plus ibuprofen for the treatment of fever in children (PITCH): randomised controlled trial
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