Antipyretics for high fever in children

An increase in temperature in a child is a protective reaction of the body to the effects of viruses, bacteria, toxins, and the response of the immune system after vaccination. In most cases, it is not necessary to use antipyretics for children, but it is necessary to have antipyretics in your home medicine cabinet.

Antipyretics (antipyretics) will help reduce a high temperature.

Which antipyretic brand is better to choose?

Leading positions in the list of the best companies are occupied by Indian, Russian and European pharmaceutical manufacturers. They offer the most advanced developments to combat elevated body temperature, the effectiveness of which has been confirmed by numerous studies.

We present the TOP 9 companies producing antipyretics:

• Reddy's (Ibuklin) is an Indian pharmaceutical company headquartered in Hyderabad, founded by Anji Reddy in 1984. It ranks second within the country in terms of the number of funds issued. The company produces both analogues of well-known drugs and patented drugs, for example, Ibuklin, Dexpan Plus, etc. The manufacturer’s tablets are highly effective, but they are also more expensive than their analogues.
• Sopharma (Analgin-quinine) is a large Bulgarian drug manufacturer, which is famous for its good quality products and loyal pricing policy, which has led to the distribution of its drugs in pharmacies throughout Russia. The company's antipyretic medications are indicated not only for high body temperature, but also for painful sensations.
• Pharmstandard (Paracetamol) is a domestic company headquartered in business. It is the largest and most influential pharmaceutical company in the domestic market. The company produces Paracetamol, a cheap drug for relieving fever, pain and inflammation.
• Menarini Group (Nimesil) is an Italian pharmaceutical company established in 1886. The company’s priority is the fight against oncology, pain, inflammation, and asthma. She released one of the most effective and popular powders against fever - Nimesil with a pleasant taste.
• Famar Orlean (TeraFlu) is a European company with Swiss roots, developing drugs to combat influenza. Its most famous product is TheraFlu. This medicine successfully fights cold symptoms: runny nose, cough and high fever, a noticeable effect is observed after 1 hour.
• GlaxoSmithKline (Coldrex, Panadol) is the world's second largest drug distribution company. One of the key areas is the sale of drugs for the treatment of respiratory diseases. Coldrex relieves nasal congestion, relieves pain, lowers body temperature and enriches the body with vitamin C; Panadol is an inexpensive product that relieves pain and fights fever in children.
• Nizhpharm (Tsefekon N) is a Russian company that has been part of the Stada group since 2004; the plant appeared in 1919 in Nizhny Novgorod. The company produces a third of all drugs that are exported. All its products are of high quality and comply with European standards.
• Novartis (Voltaren) is a transnational company (the second in Europe), which is largely engaged in the production of drugs for the treatment of oncology. Among its products is Voltaren, which has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is also effective in relieving fever and other cold symptoms.
• Panacea Biotec (Nimulid) is a progressive pharmaceutical company aimed at developing new drugs. Its two main areas of activity are the production of drugs for pain and for the treatment of diabetes. One of the modern medicines is Nimulid, which has antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

The best cough syrups for children

Traditional medicine recipes for temperature

We recommend reading: Folk remedies for fever

If you urgently need to bring down your baby’s temperature, but you don’t have any of the drugs mentioned at hand, you can resort to folk remedies.

You can reduce fever in children using apple cider vinegar. It needs to be diluted with water 1:1, and the resulting solution should be rubbed over the baby’s entire body (except for the face) to improve heat transfer. Let the child sweat thoroughly, then change him into dry clothes and cover him with a blanket. Avoid getting vinegar in your eyes or mucous membranes - even low concentrations can cause serious irritation.

Tea with cranberries will help you cope with high temperatures. The drink increases sweating. It should not be given to young children, since the likelihood of developing allergic reactions is relatively high. Caution should also be exercised if the child has been diagnosed with stomach diseases.

Please note: it is very important to give an antipyretic in time if shortness of breath develops as the temperature rises, as well as diarrhea or vomiting leading to rapid dehydration.

An excellent antipyretic and antimicrobial agent are dried raspberries and raspberry jam. Before giving this tasty and healthy natural medicine to your baby, you need to make sure that he is not allergic to raspberries.

Plisov Vladimir, medical observer

101, total, today

( 171 votes, average: 4.59 out of 5)

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Rating of the best antipyretics

To establish which antipyretic is best suited for use, we analyzed all drugs taking into account their benefits, the presence of additional effects (painkiller, anti-inflammatory, etc.), the frequency of adverse reactions, and ease of use.

Also, when selecting nominees for the rating, we were guided by the following characteristics of drugs:

• Type of medicine - tablets, syrup or powder for suspension;
• Amount in a package;
• Pleasant taste and color;
• Size of tablets and ease of separation if necessary;
• Recommended age for admission: children and/or adults;
• Compound;
• Required frequency of reception;
• Indicated duration of treatment.

Also, when compiling the rating, we took into account patient reviews, recommendations from practicing doctors, and the price-quality ratio of drugs.

The best expectorants

Antipyretic drugs for pregnant women

An increase in body temperature in a pregnant woman does not mean the development of an infectious disease. The reason may be a sudden change in hormonal levels. In any case, you can’t leave things to chance and you should consult a doctor even if there are no symptoms of a cold or infection. The only “universal” warning for expectant mothers is a ban on the use of aspirin.

Numerous scientific studies have shown that this drug can cause intrauterine mutation in the fetus. The least aggressive, and therefore suitable for pregnant women, are drugs such as Tylenol, Efferalgan, Panadol and Paracet. But even these drugs are recommended to be taken only if the body temperature remains above 38 degrees for a long time.

The best antipyretic pills

The tablets have a high concentration of the active substance and are easy to use. However, due to the need for their breakdown in the digestive system, the temperature decrease occurs later than for powders and suspensions. The rating included 3 antipyretic drugs in tablet form.

Ibuklin

Ibuklin tablets have a wide range of effects on the body: they reduce the severity of pain of various origins, reduce temperature, reduce the inflammatory process and have a strong antipyretic effect. Their secret lies in the combination of two active ingredients: ibuprofen and paracetamol. Doctors recommend using this medicine for colds, joint diseases, fractures and injuries. Their daily norm is a maximum of 3 tablets, which are usually taken after meals and washed down with plenty of water.

Advantages:

• Relieves pain well;
• Useful even with a short course of use;
• Sold in most pharmacies;
• The result comes in 30-40 minutes;
• The effect lasts for at least 6 hours.

Flaws:

• Causes risks of exacerbation of peptic ulcer disease;
• They have many contraindications and side effects, although unlikely.

Ibuklin can enter into drug interactions with numerous drugs, so their parallel use should be carried out only after consultation with your doctor.

Analgin-quinine

This is an antipyretic drug with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect for adults and children over 12 years of age. It is based on a high concentration of metamizole sodium, which is an analgesic and is indicated for febrile conditions of various etiologies. In addition to this, it neutralizes the negative effects of free radicals on the body and blocks the conduction of nerve impulses, which reduces sensitivity to pain and increases heat transfer by the body. Tablets are sold in 20 pieces, which are usually prescribed for 3 days, 1-2 tablets. 1-3 times a day, respectively, one package is enough for the course.

Advantages:

• Rapid analgesic effect;
• Tolerable taste;
• Enhanced effect compared to Analgin;
• Minimal adverse reactions: only rash, itching and abdominal pain are possible;
• Excellent against fever.

Flaws:

• Cannot completely relieve severe pain;
• Quite a long list of contraindications.

This drug can be used either alone to relieve symptoms or in combination with most other antipyretics.

Paracetamol

The cheapest way to reduce elevated body temperature is to use Paracetamol, the cost of this drug is 20-40 rubles. Thanks to the simplest possible composition, the medicine is safe for use by allergy sufferers. The absence of harmful impurities reduces the number of contraindications, for example, alcoholism and individual intolerance. The antipyretic effect of the tablets occurs within 40 minutes after use. As an additional effect, a decrease in headaches is observed. The medicine can only be used by people over 16 years of age.

Advantages:

• Eases headaches;
• Proven over the years;
• Minimum of contraindications and adverse reactions;
• Can be found at your nearest pharmacy;
• Small sizes.

Flaws:

• Increases the intensity of sweating.

These are good fever pills that can generally be used by everyone without first consulting a doctor.

Tips for fever in children

The correct non-drug methods for reducing fever are as follows::

• Fresh cool air indoors . Ventilate the room frequently. The optimal temperature is about 20 degrees Celsius.
• The air in the room should be humid . The child loses a lot of fluid in the dry air, and the inflamed mucous membranes of the nasal and oral cavities dry out. The best option is to use a humidifier (60% humidity is best). If you don't have a humidifier, hang wet towels or sheets in the room.
• Give your child water often . Heat transfer increases with frequent urination, sweating, and breathing. Give your child small, frequent drinks; drinks should not be cold or hot. Water, tea with lemon, fruit drinks, compotes, freshly squeezed diluted juices, medicinal herbs, raspberries, linden - all these drinks will be useful for a child with a fever.
• If a child refuses food, do not force feed him under any circumstances . Digestion increases body temperature and causes the body, already working in emergency mode, to lose even more strength. Offer your child light food, but do not insist that he eat it.
• Don't wrap up your child . When the temperature is elevated, he is very hot, panties and a tank top are the best option. When the child's temperature rises, he or she shudders and needs to be covered.
• A child's body is designed in a special way, and if an adult lies flat at a high temperature, the baby can play, run and jump. Excessive physical activity overheats an already overheated body, so the child needs to be calmed down, sat down, and books read to him. Don't think that a sick child's activity means everything is fine.

The best antipyretic powders and granules

Such drugs are usually diluted in water and consumed as a pleasant-tasting drink. Due to the active substances dissolved in it, the body absorbs them faster - the medicines begin to act within 20-30 minutes. On the modern market there are 3 best, according to our estimates, remedies in the form of powders for temperature.

Nimesil

The basis of the composition here is nimesulide, which blocks the inflammatory process and relieves mild to moderate pain. This product also has an antipyretic effect, which develops as pathological changes in the body subside. Doctors prescribe it for toothaches, colds, severe discomfort before and during menstruation. Sold in packs of 9 sachets (pharmacies often sell them one at a time). The frequency of use depends on how you feel, but the recommended dose is no more than 2 times a day. The maximum duration of treatment is 15 days.

Advantages:

• Soft action;
• Minimal risk of developing undesirable effects;
• Quick effect - after 30-60 minutes;
• Long-term effects on the body (up to a day);
• It almost always has a positive effect.

Flaws:

• Safety of use in children under 12 years of age has not been confirmed.

The contents of the sachet should be dissolved in 100 g of heated water and drunk. Nimesil works best when taken after meals. When dissolved, the product has a sweet-sour citrus flavor.

TeraFlu

The powder has a pleasant lemon taste and quickly fights the symptoms of flu and colds. The purpose of the drug is the symptomatic treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases that are accompanied by chills, fever, pain and runny nose. TheraFlu constricts blood vessels, removes swelling of the nasal mucosa and nasopharynx. It also acts as an analgesic and antipyretic, these effects are achieved by suppressing the production of prostaglandins.

Advantages:

• Removes the feeling of weakness and body aches;
• Pleasant lemon taste;
• Helps relieve nasal congestion;
• Reduces temperature;
• Convenient to use.

Flaws:

• It is not recommended to use before work requiring special attention;
• There are some side effects.

Theraflu is the best antipyretic drug that helps the body cope with symptoms, but it is not a drug to fight viruses. The drug is not suitable for quick recovery.

Coldrex

This is a complex antipyretic drug for adults, consisting of 5 active substances. Paracetamol suppresses the symptoms of fever, relieves pain and removes the feeling of heat. Phenylephrine fights nasal congestion and makes breathing easier, caffeine tones the entire body, and ascorbic acid saturates it with vitamin C, which is needed to successfully fight colds. The powder can be taken by children over 6 years old; it is recommended for use in the first hours after the onset of symptoms.

Advantages:

• The effect occurs within 30-40 minutes;
• Does not affect performance;
• Completely eliminates symptoms when consumed in a timely manner;
• Can replace several symptomatic medications at once;
• Pleasant aroma and taste.

Flaws:

• It is advisable to refrain from excessive consumption of coffee, tea and alcoholic beverages.

The drug is well tolerated by the body, it can be used even during pregnancy and lactation, and it is also allowed to be given to children from 6 years of age. In special cases, it is not recommended to start taking it without consulting a doctor.

Temperature rise: how does it happen?

Doctors distinguish 3 periods of development of febrile syndrome:

• increasing temperature rise
• reaching maximum values
• normalization.

All therapeutic actions aimed at combating the symptoms and consequences of fever will depend on the period.

The initial period of fever is characterized by a deterioration in the patient’s well-being (malaise, weakness), headache, pale skin, and severe chills. Sweating decreases, and the skin looks dry and cool (due to spasm of the subcutaneous vessels). In children in the first years of life, an increase in temperature often begins with tearfulness, nausea and vomiting.

As the temperature rises, the patient's condition worsens sharply, muscle pain, heaviness in the head, a feeling of heat and severe weakness appear. The skin takes on a bright pink color and becomes hot and moist to the touch. The functioning of the nervous system is disrupted, appetite disappears, sleep may be disturbed, but the main complaint of patients during this period is severe headache and general malaise.

The third febrile period (decrease in temperature) can occur very quickly - critically, or gradually - lytically. A rapid decrease in body temperature is undesirable, because may be accompanied by a drop in blood pressure, a decrease in vascular tone and a weakening of the pulse. The patient at this moment complains of dizziness, weakness and lethargy, and sweats profusely.

The best antipyretic suppositories

Remedies in the form of suppositories have a strong overall effect on the body. The effectiveness of suppositories depends on the amount of substances in their composition that can penetrate into the general bloodstream. 2 names of suppositories have a strong influence.

Cefekon N

This is the best remedy for fever that quickly removes chills and fever. It is based on salicylamide and naproxen, which stimulate sweating, thereby reducing high fever. Suppositories have not only an antipyretic effect, but also analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. They contain caffeine, a psychostimulant and tonic substance that improves a person’s overall well-being without injections or other medical procedures.

Advantages:

• Long-lasting effect that lasts about 8 hours;
• Do not have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract;
• Affordable price - 140 rubles. for 10 suppositories;
• Suppositories do not cause discomfort when administered;
• Fast action, noticeable after 15-20 minutes.

Flaws:

• There are many contraindications and side effects.

After inserting the suppository, you need to remain in a horizontal position for 40 minutes, which makes it inconvenient to use Cefekon N during work.

Voltaren

These are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory suppositories with an active component in the form of diclofenac sodium, which has a rapid effect. They not only suppress pain, but also have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Within 5-10 minutes after using the suppositories, their components are completely absorbed and begin to work. Doctors recommend using them not only as an antipyretic, but also for severe pain (migraine, neuralgia, etc.). Voltaren has a large number of contraindications, so it is better to treat it with pronounced discomfort and high temperature.

Advantages:

• Strong analgesic effect;
• Effective 10 minutes after administration;
• Has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• Prescribed for rheumatic diseases;
• Widespread in pharmacies.

Flaws:

• Serious side effects;
• High price - about 250-300 rubles. for 5 candles.

Due to the presence of some adverse reactions, Voltaren is best used only at temperatures above 38°C or in case of severe pain. It is always important to adhere to the recommended course of administration, otherwise there is a risk of overdose.

Second generation drugs

The immune system of an adult is fully developed, unlike a child. Therefore, in temperatures up to 37.5 degrees there is no need to give medications. If the thermometer shows about 39 degrees, you can try to lower it yourself. In case of high temperature, the patient should be shown to a doctor. Emergency medical care should be called in case of heat above 40 degrees.

There are certain situations when you need to reduce the temperature:

• If a person has a fever for more than 3 days.
• In the case where fever-reducing medications were prescribed by a doctor for exacerbation of chronic diseases.
• In case of violation of thermoregulation. Symptoms appear in the form of: cold sweat, severe chills, pale skin.
• In a lethargic state, accompanied by delirium.

The main factors for the occurrence of asymptomatic fever are:

• Diseases that are accompanied by infection with pathogenic microorganisms (viruses, fungi, etc.). It is better to treat immediately, rather than wait for the disease to develop. This group includes diseases such as: sore throat, ARVI, influenza.
• Purulent inflammatory processes.
• Malaria. The temperature will gradually decrease over several days.
• Typhus.
• Tumor processes. In this case, no medications for fever will help, because the fever appears due to changes in the tissues of the affected organ.
• All kinds of fractures and injuries. The temperature appears due to inflammation.
• Endocrine diseases.
• Blood diseases.
• Disturbances in the functioning of the heart.
• Inflammation of the renal system. In this case, the temperature rises to 37-38 degrees. With pyelonephritis, you need to try to reduce the temperature, since its presence indicates that the body is fighting on its own.
• Allergic reaction.
• Meningococcal infection. The temperature reaches 40 degrees, attempts to bring it down fail. When symptoms appear, the main thing is to get the patient to the hospital in time.
• Mental disorders.

Very often, experts advise taking NSAIDs; they have a small number of contraindications and rarely cause side effects. When choosing such means, you need to look at safety. Medicines are not prescribed in courses, but are taken only when a fever occurs. It is prohibited to take NSAIDs for more than 3 days without a specialist’s prescription.

There are several types of medications available to reduce fever:

1. 1st, 2nd generation.
2. Combined.

Antibacterial agents:

• They have an effect on bacteria, reducing their reproduction.
• Destroy the structure of bacteria.
• Act against inflammation.
• Increases immunity.

To reduce fever, it is better to use antipyretics (antipyretics). Antibacterial agents only act on bacteria. Therefore, the use of antibiotics for fever is inappropriate, since it is not yet clear what microorganisms cause the fever. Antibacterial drugs should be taken when a bacterial infection is diagnosed.

Signs of disease may include:

• Bacterial sore throat.
• Inflammatory process of the inner ear.
• Chronic bronchitis.
• Pneumonia.

Popular antibiotics among doctors:

• "Amoxiclav".
• "Ceftriaxone".
• "Levomycetin".
• Azithromycin.
• "Clarithromycin."

Antipyretics at high temperatures in adults quickly relieve inflammation, but side effects may occur after taking them. For example, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Also, at the first dose, there is a possibility of diarrhea.

"Nurofen"

The medicine belongs to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The drug is in demand among buyers, it eliminates fever. The active ingredient of the product is ibuprofen.

The drug is offered for sale in various forms:

• Capsules. The Express form contains a 2nd dose of ibuprofen.
• Tablet form.
• Children's syrup with strawberry and orange flavors.

The drug is contraindicated in:

• Exacerbation of stomach ulcers.
• Diseases of the heart muscle.
• High blood pressure.
• Pathologies of the renal system.
• Bleeding.
• Pregnancy (3rd trimester).
• Breastfeeding.

The drug increases the resistance of cells to various microbes. The medicine is effective against influenza and ARVI. The drug reduces pain, as it is included in the list of NSAIDs.

Contraindications to taking Mefenamic acid:

• Allergic reactions to the composition.
• Bronchospasm.
• Quincke's edema.
• Stomach ulcer.
• Blood diseases.
• Heart failure.

Antipyretics for high fever in adults, the most common ones that effectively help: Nimesulide, Meloxicam. Nimesulide is part of the NSAID group and is available from pharmacies in the form of powder or tablets.

Meloxicam – has anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic effects. It is produced in tablet form and as a suppository for rectal use.

"Nise"

The product is available in the form of sublingual tablets with nimesulide. The medicine effectively helps as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic agent.

“Nise” is prohibited for use by children under 18 years of age, as well as by allergies to components and gastrointestinal ulcers. Most of all, the drug is prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis, osteochondrosis, and myalgia. Among the side effects from taking the medicine, allergies most often appear.

"Nimesil"

The product comes in powder form - this causes some inconvenience, since the powder needs to be dissolved. The drug reduces the negative effects on the stomach.

Preparations that include not only fever-reducing components. For example, a product that can fight ARVI and fever at the same time. Experts recommend choosing drugs with one component, since when taking such drugs a person receives many substances: for breakdown, absorption, and so on. These medications contain preservatives and flavorings.

This group includes:

• "Rinza."
• "Rinzasip."
• "Theraflu" - helps in eliminating pain and reducing fever. The downside of Theraflu is the presence of dyes and preservatives in the composition.
• Coldrex.
• "Nurofen Long".
• "Ibuklin."
• "Aspirin C" - combines acetylsalicylic acid and vitamin C.
• Coldact Flu Plus.

Antipyretic drugs for high fever in adults, which have a low cost:

• "Paracetamol".
• "Panadol".
• "Aspirin".
• "Citramon".
• "Analgin."
• "Ibuprofen."

"Aspirin"

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) should not be taken to reduce flu symptoms, as bleeding may develop due to increased permeability of the vascular walls.

"Analgin"

In most countries, the drug is completely prohibited. This is due to the fact that the drug provokes allergies (sensitization).

Clinical studies have proven that Analgin reduces the body's resistance to infections.

"Indomethacin"

The drug consists of indolylacetic acid. Due to its components, the product reduces fever and is effective against pain. It is recommended to use Indomethacin for inflammation and infections. The medicine is available in different forms: suppositories, tablets. Candles are the safest for health.

"Paracetamol"

A cheap drug that eliminates fever and pain. The drug is ineffective against inflammation. The medicine does not contain chemicals (dyes, preservatives). It is forbidden to take Paracetamol if the renal system or kidneys are impaired, or if you have chronic alcoholism.

The most popular antipyretics for high fever in adults are:

• "Panadol".
• "Ibuklin."
• "Coldakt".
• "Voltaren."
• "Tylenol."

"Voltaren"

Contains diclofenac. Due to its composition, the product effectively relieves pain and fever. The disadvantage of the medicine is its high cost.

"Ibuklin"

A combination drug containing ibuprofen and paracetamol. The product is well tolerated. It is not recommended for expectant mothers to take Ibuklin during lactation or for diseases of the liver and renal system.

"Panadol"

A popular medicine against fever. The drug consists of paracetamol. The manufacturer produces the product in the form of regular and effervescent tablets, children's suspension, and suppositories for rectal use. "Panadol" has a small number of contraindications, including: allergies to components, disorders of the liver and hematopoietic system.

"Koldakt"

The medicine relieves:

• Pain.
• Fevers.
• Heat.
• Swelling in the nasopharynx.

The drug can cause negative effects from use, so dosage should be strictly observed.

"Tylenol"

The drug, which is based on paracetamol, is good for relieving colds and fever.

The use of the drug may cause side effects such as:

• Edema.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Heart muscle pain.
• Shortness of breath.
• Anemia.

Antipyretics for high fever in adults can be prepared at home. Traditional methods reduce fever without taking medications.

Some recipes:

• For cooking you will need 2 tbsp. chopped raspberry leaves. They should be filled with a glass of hot water and heated for 15 minutes. Strain the resulting mixture. Can be consumed in small sips.
• You should take 2 tbsp. crushed linden flowers, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for about 30 minutes. under the lid. Strain the resulting mixture, add 1 tsp. honey. Use ¼ cup of the product over 24 hours.
• Raw potatoes with vinegar. You need to take 2 potatoes, grate them on a fine grater, dilute 1 tbsp. vinegar. The resulting mixture should be applied to a gauze bandage and placed on the forehead and kept for 2 hours.

The best antipyretic syrups for children

Children, especially newborns, should be given only special syrups, since tablets, suppositories, etc. are not suitable. From the entire range, we were able to identify 2 of the best antipyretics for children in the form of tasty liquids, which are effective and safe.

Nimulid

The drug "Nimulid" reduces inflammation, relieves pain and reduces fever. It is strong enough and can be used for chickenpox and other colds. After consuming this antipyretic, the child begins to sweat within 1-2 hours, and the effect lasts up to 8 hours. Despite the permission for use by children, it is better to give the syrup after consulting a doctor. The dosage of the suspension depends on the child’s weight and is prescribed at the rate of 1.5 mg per 1 kg of weight. The recommended frequency of use of the composition is 2-3 times a day. To avoid overdose, you can take no more than 5 mg/kg per day.

Advantages:

• Fast and long-lasting effect;
• Affordable price - up to 150 rubles;
• Pleasant taste;
• Removes muscle pain;
• Copes even with persistent and very high temperatures.

Flaws:

• Large list of contraindications and side effects.

Nimulid is a strong drug that somewhat overloads the liver; it is appropriate to use it only when the temperature is too high, in other cases it is better to resort to a more gentle remedy.

Panadol

This is a universal drug for reducing headaches, alleviating teething and eliminating fever. It has a pronounced antipyretic and analgesic effect. The medicine is based on paracetamol, a safe substance, although not as strong as nimesulide. Panadol begins to act within 40 minutes after administration, maintaining normal temperature for at least 4 hours. It can be prescribed to children from 3 months of age and for infectious diseases: measles, mumps, colds, flu.

This is a good, time-tested medicine for fever, which removes not only fever, but also pain. The syrup can be used from an early age in adequate dosage and rarely causes side effects. Due to its gentle effect on the child’s body, I recommend it to everyone, with the exception of children with severe fever and pain.

Advantages:

• Gentle on the stomach;
• Analgesic effect;
• Pleasant aroma and taste;
• Minimum of adverse reactions;
• Costs less than 100 rubles.

Flaws:

• The composition contains dyes;
• Short-term effect.

Panadol is best used for children whose temperature does not exceed 38.5°C. If the readings on the thermometer are high, this antipyretic cannot cope; a stronger analogue is needed.

When to take the pill?

There is not always an urgent need to bring down an elevated temperature, because it is a completely natural reaction of the human body to an irritant. It is at this point that the body produces interferon, which helps fight viruses.

Medicines for fever cannot affect the patient's recovery process. They relieve only some of the symptoms of the disease.

When it is possible to spend at least a couple of days in a gentle mode, improving your condition only with classical physical methods, then it is best to abandon antipyretics altogether. At this time, it is good to apply cooling compresses, ventilate your home and drink as much liquid as possible.

However, there are cases in which antipyretic drugs are still necessary:

1. poor tolerance to high temperature;
2. addition of a bacterial infection;
3. tendency to seizures or their onset;
4. temperature 38.5°C in children;
5. temperature 39°C in an adult;
6. temperature from 38 to 38.5 ° C in babies under 2 months and pregnant women.

If antipyretics do not help within 60 minutes after taking, you should immediately seek medical help.

What is normal temperature

Humans are classified as warm-blooded. It is able to independently maintain constant temperature values. Many factors are responsible for this process, but the main regulators are the hypothalamus and thyroid hormones. Androgens also influence this process, especially in adolescence.

In young children, the temperature is not stable. Up to a year it can fluctuate from 36 to 38 degrees without any illness. For children under five years of age, the norm is 36-37.5. Strong fluctuations are also observed in adolescence due to high levels of sex hormones. Indicators completely stabilize after sixteen years, when daily fluctuations are no more than 0.5 degrees. Typically, the temperature is lower in the morning and higher in the evening. The lowest values ​​are recorded around four o'clock in the morning.

The average temperature of a healthy person is considered to be 36.6. This figure was determined experimentally after measuring the indicators of one million people. However, there are also deviations. Some people feel great with marks of 35.8-36. Others 37-37.2.

additional information

For patients prescribed antibiotics, antipyretics are contraindicated. If, in addition to an elevated temperature, the child suffers from pain in the stomach, but there are no cold symptoms, you must immediately call a doctor and do not give any fever-reducing medications until he arrives. This condition may be a sign of a serious pathology that requires emergency care (appendicitis, for example). If severe hyperthermia or spasms of skin vessels develop, it is necessary to call a doctor and give an antipyretic. You also need to rub the baby’s skin until it turns red. You should also call a doctor if, in addition to fever, the child has diarrhea or vomiting, rapid, slow or difficult breathing, the baby drinks little water, or there is a rash on the body. Signs of dehydration are the appearance of bad breath, drowsiness, apathy, lack of tears, rare urination, hemorrhages on the skin, and after a slight improvement the condition sharply worsened.

Preparations with ibuprofen and diclofenac

The most beneficial antipyretic drugs from the NSAID line, both in terms of safety and effectiveness, are medications with diclofenac and ibuprofen.
“It is customary for us to escape from the symptoms of fever and any painful syndrome through strictly two traditional drugs - Paracetamol (for temperature) and Analgin (for pain). People do not know that all drugs from the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs perform three functions at once - they effectively relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. And some of them are tens of times safer, for example, from the same Analgin,” says specialist Khadzhidis. An expert in the field of pharmacology said that even at the beginning of his teaching career, he told his students that aspirin would be replaced by innovative drugs in the near future. His words were confirmed; the Russian market is gradually being updated with new drugs that have significantly superior pharmacological properties to their predecessors. “Few people know that there are very effective modern drugs with an intense anti-inflammatory effect, for example, Voltaren based on diclofenac or Ibuprom based on ibuprofen. But besides this, these drugs also instantly eliminate fever, which only a few people know,” the pharmacologist comments on the current trend.

Carrying out high temperature diagnostics

In order to measure body temperature, you can use thermometers, which come in several types: mercury, alcohol-based and electronic.

Temperature can be measured in the armpit, rectum and ear canal. More recently, ear thermometers, which modern doctors consider the most accurate, began to go on sale.

In order to correctly measure body temperature with a mercury thermometer, you need to know some features: the room where the temperature is measured should not be too cool (optimally 19-23 degrees), the armpit or ear canal must be dry, you must wait at least an hour after physical activity or eating, during the period of measuring body temperature, you should not move or talk, the person should be at rest.

Many people have already replaced their mercury thermometers with electronic thermometers. This is safer and takes much less time. Another important aspect here is its multifunctionality. After all, with such a thermometer it is possible to measure temperature rectally, orally or axillarily.

If a person is taking antipyretic drugs, then the temperature should be measured both before taking the medication and after taking it, usually 40 minutes later.

It is also important to remember that usually several people use one thermometer, so you should not forget to wipe it with an antibacterial solution and wipe it dry afterwards.

Useful advice from a specialist

• The more substances included in the active composition, the more unsafe a certain drug is for the body. It follows that, wanting to bring down a high temperature, it is not advisable to take a multicomponent medicine, which can entail a number of side effects characteristic of each individual substance. Take Pentalgin, for example, it is literally “stuffed” with specific components. Its composition is represented by paracetamol, caffeine, naproxen, drotaverine, pheniramine. And each of the active organic compounds has its own negative sides. By taking such a chemical complex internally, a person runs a high risk of developing serious health problems.
• You should always pay attention to all the substances that are included in the antipyretic drug. Thus, it is not recommended to take drugs that combine incompatible components, such as paracetamol and barbiturate (phenobarbital). Barbiturates extremely increase the carcinogenicity of paracetamol.
• Common NSAIDs (analgin, aspirin, etc.) are ineffective for neuralgic, dental and joint pain. To relieve excruciating pain, it is better to give preference to non-hormonal agents with a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. For pain caused by inflammatory processes, Diclofenac is perfect.
• Widely known antispasmodic drugs (No-Shpa and its analogues) are used to relieve pain of non-inflammatory origin, that is, spasm. Therefore, for inflammation pain, taking them will not give positive results. They are absolutely powerless against fever accompanied by high temperature.

Ibuprofen remedy

This antipyretic for children is prescribed if the drug Paracetamol does not help or causes side effects. Ibuprofen has its own list of contraindications. It can also provoke undesirable consequences. First of all, it should be noted that this antipyretic is contraindicated for children 3 years old. In addition, the drug is not prescribed for allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma, urticaria or cough caused by the use of NSAIDs. Contraindications are also such pathologies and conditions as blood diseases, disorders of the liver or kidney function, ulcerative lesions in the gastrointestinal tract, and hearing impairment. Side effects may include rash, itching, insomnia, headache, nausea, diarrhea, hyperexcitability, cystitis, and stomach pain. Also, while taking the medication "Ibuprofen", disturbances in the functioning of the kidneys, bronchospasm, dizziness, thrombocytopenia, anemia, leukopenia may occur. In case of overdose, the following symptoms may be observed: tinnitus, vomiting, acute renal failure, pain in the head and abdomen, tachycardia, metabolic acidosis, hypotension.

Prevention

To avoid fever, the following preventive rules must be observed:

• Wash your hands with soap (including your child’s) after a walk and after each visit to the toilet.
• Dress appropriately for the weather.
• Beware of drafts and hypothermia.
• Avoid public events and places with large crowds of people during seasonal epidemics.
• Stick to a balanced diet.
• Drink vitamin complexes.

Antipyretics are an essential tool for reducing high body temperature. But they do not have a therapeutic effect, but only eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Therefore, in case of severe fever in a child, treatment should be comprehensive and always under the supervision of a doctor.

Comparison table of characteristics

In order to compare the presented products, we suggest taking a look at the table below with their characteristics.

Acetylsalicylic acid ("Aspirin")

It is unlikely that there is at least one family in our country whose home medicine cabinet does not contain Aspirin.

— If I were offered to go to a desert island and take three things with me, I would take Aspirin. This is a broad-spectrum drug: it has antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic effects, says Alexander Hadjidis. “But it’s also important to know how to handle it.”

Today, many doctors advise taking up to 150 mg of acetylsalicylic acid daily to prevent the formation of blood clots and protect the cardiovascular system. This is a truly effective preventive measure. But, if you don’t want to test for yourself the truth of the expression “one heals, and the other cripples,” then take Aspirin with alkaline drinks (the easiest option is mineral water).

The development of ulcers is a side effect that almost all NSAIDs cause when taken in excess. It does not matter whether you use the tablet form or give an injection. In order to reduce the risk of developing an ulcer, manufacturers try to minimize the contact of the drug with the gastric mucosa (they combine medications and produce effervescent tablets).

Paracetamol

Our expert, the chief clinical pharmacologist of St. Petersburg, puts paracetamol first on the list of antipyretic drugs. It does not have the added anti-inflammatory effect of many similar drugs, but it also does not have many of the side effects of NSAIDs.

Alexander Hadjidis believes that paracetamol will not cause any negative consequences at all if it is not taken systemically, but only to relieve symptoms. Only in very rare cases may a rash appear or tissue hypoxia develop. Sometimes it is said that paracetamol is hepatoxic (its negative effect on the liver).

But this is only true if the drug is used for a long time, exceeding all imaginable dosages. In order for the liver to suffer, you need to drink 20 paracetamol tablets of 0.5 grams at a time. Thus, you can only deliberately harm your body, since it is simply unrealistic to accidentally take such a dose.

— If you have any liver disease, then carefully monitor your condition when you have a fever and take medications. In acute hepatitis, for example, paracetamol is much better metabolized in the liver. As a result, the amount of metabolites (toxic breakdown products of the drug) increases in the body. With cirrhosis, when all liver functions are reduced, the likelihood of a toxic effect from the drug is even higher, and in rare cases, death is possible.

To avoid side effects, use the drug once. The temperature rose - we drank the required dose. There is no need to take it during the day “for prevention”.