Reduce fever for children

Fever in a Child

A fever is defined as a core body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C).In some cases, the temperature will become extremely high and should be reduced as soon as possible (in cases where the body temperature is in excess of 105°F, take the child to the emergency room immediately).

Reduce fever 

Medication (including acetaminophen and ibuprofen) may be used to keep a fever under control. Never use fever reducing medication on a child younger than three months: a fever in a very young infant is an extremely serious event and the child should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately.

Fever Control Medications

The only medications that may be used for controlling fevers in children are ibuprofen and acetaminophen. The appropriate dosing information is located on the medication bottle - follow the instructions carefully and do not give the child more medication than is indicated. Infant formulations of these medications are more concentrated than the "child" formulations - it is important to follow the label directions exactly. If your child's weight or age are not listed on the label, contact your child's doctor to ask about the proper dose.

In general, acetaminophen may be given every four hours and ibuprofen may be given every 6-8 hours. To control a difficult fever, the medications may be alternated. Ibuprofen will control a fever longer than acetaminophen.

Aspirin should never be used in children under the age of 18 years. A condition called Reye's Syndrome may attack a child's liver and brain - this condition is linked to the use of aspirin during a viral illness.