Microsoft word - ai_qa.docx

989-984-3770
Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen Questions and Answers
Acetaminophen (used in Tylenol) and ibuprofen (used in Advil and Motrin) are medications used to treat fever and pain. Please be certain of the concentration of the product you are using (there are different product ones), so the correct dose for your infant or toddler can be determined based on the concentration you are using. When should I worry about fever?
Fever is our body’s normal response to infections and is a very common symptom of childhood illness. Fever can help our bodies fight infection, and a fever, even a high one, is generally not harmful as long as the underlying reason for the fever is not dangerous. There are some instances, however, when we should worry about a child’s fever. Infants less than three months of age with a rectal temperature greater than 100.4ºF may have a serious illness; parents should call immediately if such a fever is noted so your child can be promptly evaluated. For older infants and children there is no specific temperature that is the sign of a serious problem; instead, our level of concern is guided by a child’s behavior. If your child is warm or has fever but is up and playing and maintaining adequate hydration, you do not necessarily have to give a fever-reducing medication. Any infant, child or adolescent who is apathetic, inconsolable or looks “toxic” despite adequate doses of fever-reducing medication should be seen and evaluated. If your child can smile and respond to you, and takes fluids well, but still seems uncomfortable, you can treat the fever with fever-reducing medication and observe. However, if the fever persists or your child’s behavior or symptoms change, s/he should be seen. If you have any questions about your child’s condition, please do not hesitate to call! What medicine should I give my child for fever?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can be used to treat fever. There is no data to suggest that one is better than another, although some parents feel that their child responds better to one or the other. Children must be over six months of age to be given ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin). We do not generally recommend medications that contain multiple ingredients, especially for infants and young children. Is it safe to alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen?
Since acetaminophen and ibuprofen are different types of medications, it is generally safe to use either one at appropriate dosages and approved intervals. If your child is still “hot” and uncomfortable after an appropriate dose of fever-reducing medication, consider a lukewarm bath and pushing fluids for comfort. Are there any tips for administering acetaminophen and ibuprofen?
Please note that kitchen teaspoons do not accurately measure medication. One pharmacy teaspoon is equal to 5 989-984-3770

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Dosing Information
Give every 4-6 hours, as needed, and not more than five times in a twenty-four period unless directed by a healthcare Infant Drops:
Infant Oral
Children's
Children's Junior Strength
Concentration
Suspension:
Suspension
1 tablet =
Concentration
1 tsp (5 mL)
1 tablet =
5 mL = 160mg
** Acetaminophen should only be given to infants 0-3 months if directed by a healthcare professional. 989-984-3770

Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) Dosing Information
Give every 6-8 hours, as needed, and not more than four times in a twenty-four period unless directed by a Children's
Children's Liquid
Strength
or Suspension
1 tablet =
1 tablet =
5.0 mL = 100 mg

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