What medications can effectively lower a fever. How do over-the-counter options like ibuprofen and acetaminophen work to reduce temperature. When should you seek medical attention for a fever.

Understanding Fever and Its Treatment Options

A fever is the body’s natural response to infection, defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or above. While fevers serve a purpose in fighting off pathogens, they can become uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if left unchecked. This guide explores various medications available for fever reduction and provides insights into their proper usage.

What Causes a Fever?

Fevers typically occur when the immune system detects the presence of viruses, bacteria, or other harmful agents. In response, the body raises its internal temperature to create an inhospitable environment for these invaders. While this process is generally beneficial, it can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, complications if the temperature rises too high.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Fever Reduction

Two primary categories of over-the-counter (OTC) medications are commonly used to treat fevers:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Acetaminophen

These medications work to reduce fever and alleviate associated symptoms, though they do not address the underlying cause of the fever itself.

Ibuprofen: A Popular NSAID Option

Ibuprofen, sold under brand names like Advil and Motrin, is a widely used NSAID for fever reduction. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for inflammation and fever.

Recommended dosage for adults:

• 1-2 200 mg tablets every 4-6 hours
• Maximum daily dose: 1,200 mg

Common side effects of ibuprofen may include:

• Gastrointestinal issues (constipation, gas, bloating, diarrhea)
• Dizziness
• Nervousness
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Nausea and vomiting

Naproxen: Another NSAID Alternative

Naproxen, often sold as Aleve, is another NSAID option for fever reduction. It shares a similar mechanism of action with ibuprofen but may offer longer-lasting effects.

Recommended dosage for adults:

• 1-2 220 mg tablets every 8-12 hours
• Maximum daily dose: 660 mg

Potential side effects of naproxen include:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances
• Dizziness and headaches
• Excessive thirst
• Drowsiness
• Cold-like symptoms
• Tinnitus
• Sleep difficulties
• Sensory disturbances in the extremities

Aspirin: An NSAID with Unique Considerations

Aspirin, commonly known by the brand name Bayer, is an NSAID composed of acetylated salicylates. While effective for fever reduction in adults, it carries special precautions for certain groups.

Recommended dosage for adults:

• 1-2 325 mg tablets every 4 hours, or 3 tablets every 6 hours
• Maximum daily dose: 4,000 mg

Side effects of aspirin may include:

• Nausea and heartburn
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain

It’s crucial to note that aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers without consulting a doctor due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a potentially fatal condition.

Acetaminophen: A Non-NSAID Fever Reducer

Acetaminophen, sold under the brand name Tylenol, is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic agent. It differs from NSAIDs in its mechanism of action but is equally effective in reducing fever.

Recommended dosage for adults:

• 500 mg or 1,000 mg every 4-6 hours
• Maximum daily dose: 4,000 mg

Side effects of acetaminophen are rare when taken as directed, but in some cases, allergic reactions may occur.

Special Considerations for Fever Treatment

While over-the-counter medications can effectively reduce fever, certain groups require special attention when considering treatment options:

Pregnancy and Fever Reduction

Pregnant individuals should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any OTC medication for fever. Some medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus.

Treating Fevers in Children

Parents and caregivers should always consult a pediatrician before administering fever-reducing medications to children. Dosages and appropriate medications can vary based on a child’s age, weight, and overall health status.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Fever

While many fevers can be managed at home with OTC medications, certain situations warrant professional medical attention:

• Fever persisting for more than three days
• Temperature exceeding 103°F (39.4°C) in adults
• Fever accompanied by severe headache, stiff neck, or confusion
• Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination or dry mouth
• Fever in infants younger than 3 months old
• Any fever in individuals with compromised immune systems

Complementary Approaches to Fever Management

In addition to medication, several non-pharmacological methods can help manage fever symptoms:

• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
• Resting and avoiding strenuous activities
• Using a cool compress on the forehead or taking a lukewarm bath
• Dressing in light, breathable clothing
• Maintaining a comfortable room temperature

Understanding the Limitations of Fever-Reducing Medications

It’s important to recognize that while fever-reducing medications can provide relief from symptoms, they do not address the underlying cause of the fever. These medications should be viewed as a tool for managing discomfort rather than a cure for the illness itself.

Can fever-reducing medications mask serious conditions?

While fever-reducing medications can help manage symptoms, they may potentially mask signs of more serious conditions. This is why it’s crucial to monitor other symptoms and seek medical attention if fever persists or is accompanied by concerning signs.

The Role of Fever in the Immune Response

Fever plays a significant role in the body’s defense against pathogens. By increasing body temperature, the immune system creates an environment that is less hospitable to invading microorganisms. This process can help:

• Slow down the reproduction of viruses and bacteria
• Enhance the activity of white blood cells
• Stimulate the production of protective proteins called heat shock proteins

Given these benefits, some healthcare professionals argue that mild to moderate fevers should be allowed to run their course without intervention, as long as the individual is comfortable and well-hydrated.

When is it appropriate to let a fever run its course?

For generally healthy adults, allowing a low-grade fever (up to 102°F or 38.9°C) to persist without medication can be beneficial, provided it doesn’t cause significant discomfort or interfere with daily activities. However, individuals with certain health conditions or those experiencing high fevers should consult with a healthcare provider for guidance.

Potential Risks of Overusing Fever-Reducing Medications

While fever-reducing medications are generally safe when used as directed, overuse or misuse can lead to various health risks:

Risks associated with NSAIDs:

• Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers
• Potential kidney damage with long-term use
• Increased risk of cardiovascular events in some individuals

Risks associated with acetaminophen:

• Liver damage when taken in excessive amounts or combined with alcohol
• Potential for allergic reactions in some individuals

To minimize these risks, it’s essential to follow dosage instructions carefully and avoid combining different fever-reducing medications without consulting a healthcare provider.

Fever Management in Special Populations

Certain groups may require special considerations when it comes to fever management:

Elderly individuals:

Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of fever-reducing medications and may require closer monitoring when using these drugs. Additionally, they may not always present with typical fever symptoms, making it crucial to watch for other signs of illness.

Immunocompromised individuals:

People with weakened immune systems may be at higher risk for complications from fevers and should seek medical attention promptly when experiencing elevated temperatures.

Individuals with chronic health conditions:

Those with pre-existing health conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease may need to exercise caution when using certain fever-reducing medications and should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice.

The Future of Fever Management

As medical research advances, new approaches to fever management are being explored:

Targeted therapies:

Researchers are investigating medications that can more precisely target the mechanisms responsible for fever, potentially offering more effective treatment with fewer side effects.

Personalized medicine:

Advances in genetic testing and biomarker analysis may lead to more individualized approaches to fever management, taking into account a person’s unique physiological characteristics.

Alternative delivery methods:

New formulations of fever-reducing medications, such as long-acting or transdermal preparations, may offer more convenient and consistent fever control.

As our understanding of the immune system and fever response continues to grow, it’s likely that fever management strategies will evolve to provide more targeted and effective relief while minimizing potential risks.

Medication for fever: Options to consider

Two over-the-counter (OTC) options can help reduce a fever. They are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil), and acetaminophen (Tylenol).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a fever as any temperature at 100.4ºF (38ºC) or above.

A fever is the immune system’s response to illness. It is an attempt to kill viruses and bacteria by raising the body’s temperature a few degrees.

While it is a natural process, it can be uncomfortable and become dangerous if a person’s temperature becomes too high.

Medications for fever do not treat the underlying condition causing the fever, but they can help reduce it and other symptoms of the illness.

People who are pregnant should consult a doctor before taking OTC medication for a fever. Parents and caregivers should also consult a doctor before administering any medications to a child.

This article outlines the medications available to treat a fever at home. It also discusses when to seek medical attention.

The following table provides a general overview of the medications a person can take to treat a fever. People should always check the medication label.

Ibuprofen is a type of NSAID sold under several brand names, including Advil and Motrin. It is a form of propionic acid and can help reduce fever as well as other symptoms, such as pain.

Depending on the dose, a person can get ibuprofen OTC at stores and pharmacies or via prescription. It comes in various forms, including tablets or capsules.

A 2022 article notes that people in their third trimester of pregnancy should not take ibuprofen.

Children can take ibuprofen, but parents and caregivers should speak with a pediatrician before giving them the medication.

Side effects

Side effects can include:

• constipation
• gas
• bloating
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• feeling nervous
• ringing in the ears

It can also cause nausea and vomiting.

Learn more about ibuprofen.

Naproxen is another type of NSAID, commonly sold under the brand name Aleve. Similar to ibuprofen, it is a form of propionic acid and can treat additional symptoms other than a fever.

A person can take naproxen sodium as a tablet or capsule. Liquid forms are available for younger children, although a parent or caregiver should talk with the child’s doctor first.

People who are in their third trimester of pregnancy should not take naproxen.

Side effects

Side effects can include:

• gas
• constipation
• dizziness
• headache
• excessive thirst
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• lightheadedness
• symptoms of a cold
• ringing in the ears
• sleeping difficulties
• hearing problems
• a burning or tingling sensation in the legs and arms

Learn more about naproxen.

Aspirin is another common form of NSAID that consists of acetylated salicylates. A common brand name is Bayer. This medication comes in several different formulas, including regular strength, and different forms such as tablets.

Caregivers should not give aspirin to children or teens without first consulting a doctor. A 2022 article notes an association between taking aspirin and the development of Reye’s syndrome, which can be fatal.

People who are pregnant should speak with a doctor before taking aspirin.

Side effects

Side effects include:

• nausea
• heartburn
• vomiting
• stomach pain

Learn more about aspirin.

Acetaminophen, commonly sold under the brand name Tylenol, is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic agent to treat pain and fever. Companies often add acetaminophen to other medications that treat allergies, colds, flu, and other medical conditions.

Acetaminophen is available OTC or as a prescription.

For teenagers and adults, it commonly comes in the form of tablets and capsules. Younger children may be able to take it in a liquid form, but caregivers should speak with a paediatrician first.

Side effects

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) states that side effects are rare in adults and children if a person takes the correct dose.

However, in rare cases, a person can experience an allergic reaction.

In some cases, NSAIDs can lead to serious adverse effects, including problems affecting the liver, heart, and blood circulation.

Compared to prescription-strength medications, OTC NSAIDs typically cause fewer side effects.

Acetaminophen can lead to liver failure or other issues with the liver.

People can also experience an allergic reaction to fever-reducing medications. People should seek medical help if they experience:

• rash
• inflamed, peeling, or blistering skin
• itching
• hives
• hoarse voice
• difficulty swallowing
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the face, tongue, throat, lips, hands, feet, eyes, lower legs, or ankles

A person should take fever-reducing medications only as a medical professional advises.

There are several formulas of NSAIDs and acetaminophen with differing doses. A person should follow the instructions on the packaging and pay attention to the maximum number of doses allowed in 24 hours.

When treating an underlying condition, a person should follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding how much to take and when to take it.

A person should also be mindful of other medications that may contain acetaminophen. Companies often mix it with other ingredients to create OTC medications for colds, flu, and other issues.

Can a person take acetaminophen and NSAIDs at the same time?

A person can take acetaminophen and ibuprofen at the same time.

Learn more about acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

A person may find that certain home remedies may help reduce their fever. Other options include:

• resting
• taking lukewarm baths
• drinking plenty of fluids
• wearing loose clothing

A fever breaks when a person’s temperature drops below 100.4ºF (38°C), but they may still feel ill due to the underlying condition. Dropping the fever can help alleviate some symptoms and help people feel better overall.

Learn more

Find out more about treating a fever:

• How to reduce a fever
• Treatment tips for breaking a fever
• What are the best home remedies for fever?
• How to bring down a fever in babies

A person should seek medical help if they are unable to lower the fever on their own or if they suspect a more serious underlying condition. They should also contact a doctor if:

• a person experiences worsening symptoms
• they have a weakened immune system
• they reach a fever of 104°F (40ºC) or higher
• they are concerned about a fever in a child or older adult

A person can take NSAIDs and acetaminophen to help treat a fever at home. These medications can also help to treat additional symptoms, such as pain.

A person should consult a doctor if their fever lasts longer than a few days, causes additional symptoms, or does not go down with medication.

Medication for fever: Options to consider

Two over-the-counter (OTC) options can help reduce a fever. They are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil), and acetaminophen (Tylenol).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a fever as any temperature at 100.4ºF (38ºC) or above.

A fever is the immune system’s response to illness. It is an attempt to kill viruses and bacteria by raising the body’s temperature a few degrees.

While it is a natural process, it can be uncomfortable and become dangerous if a person’s temperature becomes too high.

Medications for fever do not treat the underlying condition causing the fever, but they can help reduce it and other symptoms of the illness.

People who are pregnant should consult a doctor before taking OTC medication for a fever. Parents and caregivers should also consult a doctor before administering any medications to a child.

This article outlines the medications available to treat a fever at home. It also discusses when to seek medical attention.

The following table provides a general overview of the medications a person can take to treat a fever. People should always check the medication label.

Ibuprofen is a type of NSAID sold under several brand names, including Advil and Motrin. It is a form of propionic acid and can help reduce fever as well as other symptoms, such as pain.

Depending on the dose, a person can get ibuprofen OTC at stores and pharmacies or via prescription. It comes in various forms, including tablets or capsules.

A 2022 article notes that people in their third trimester of pregnancy should not take ibuprofen.

Children can take ibuprofen, but parents and caregivers should speak with a pediatrician before giving them the medication.

Side effects

Side effects can include:

• constipation
• gas
• bloating
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• feeling nervous
• ringing in the ears

It can also cause nausea and vomiting.

Learn more about ibuprofen.

Naproxen is another type of NSAID, commonly sold under the brand name Aleve. Similar to ibuprofen, it is a form of propionic acid and can treat additional symptoms other than a fever.

A person can take naproxen sodium as a tablet or capsule. Liquid forms are available for younger children, although a parent or caregiver should talk with the child’s doctor first.

People who are in their third trimester of pregnancy should not take naproxen.

Side effects

Side effects can include:

• gas
• constipation
• dizziness
• headache
• excessive thirst
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• lightheadedness
• symptoms of a cold
• ringing in the ears
• sleeping difficulties
• hearing problems
• a burning or tingling sensation in the legs and arms

Learn more about naproxen.

Aspirin is another common form of NSAID that consists of acetylated salicylates. A common brand name is Bayer. This medication comes in several different formulas, including regular strength, and different forms such as tablets.

Caregivers should not give aspirin to children or teens without first consulting a doctor. A 2022 article notes an association between taking aspirin and the development of Reye’s syndrome, which can be fatal.

People who are pregnant should speak with a doctor before taking aspirin.

Side effects

Side effects include:

• nausea
• heartburn
• vomiting
• stomach pain

Learn more about aspirin.

Acetaminophen, commonly sold under the brand name Tylenol, is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic agent to treat pain and fever. Companies often add acetaminophen to other medications that treat allergies, colds, flu, and other medical conditions.

Acetaminophen is available OTC or as a prescription.

For teenagers and adults, it commonly comes in the form of tablets and capsules. Younger children may be able to take it in a liquid form, but caregivers should speak with a paediatrician first.

Side effects

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) states that side effects are rare in adults and children if a person takes the correct dose.

However, in rare cases, a person can experience an allergic reaction.

In some cases, NSAIDs can lead to serious adverse effects, including problems affecting the liver, heart, and blood circulation.

Compared to prescription-strength medications, OTC NSAIDs typically cause fewer side effects.

Acetaminophen can lead to liver failure or other issues with the liver.

People can also experience an allergic reaction to fever-reducing medications. People should seek medical help if they experience:

• rash
• inflamed, peeling, or blistering skin
• itching
• hives
• hoarse voice
• difficulty swallowing
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the face, tongue, throat, lips, hands, feet, eyes, lower legs, or ankles

A person should take fever-reducing medications only as a medical professional advises.

There are several formulas of NSAIDs and acetaminophen with differing doses. A person should follow the instructions on the packaging and pay attention to the maximum number of doses allowed in 24 hours.

When treating an underlying condition, a person should follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding how much to take and when to take it.

A person should also be mindful of other medications that may contain acetaminophen. Companies often mix it with other ingredients to create OTC medications for colds, flu, and other issues.

Can a person take acetaminophen and NSAIDs at the same time?

A person can take acetaminophen and ibuprofen at the same time.

Learn more about acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

A person may find that certain home remedies may help reduce their fever. Other options include:

• resting
• taking lukewarm baths
• drinking plenty of fluids
• wearing loose clothing

A fever breaks when a person’s temperature drops below 100.4ºF (38°C), but they may still feel ill due to the underlying condition. Dropping the fever can help alleviate some symptoms and help people feel better overall.

Learn more

Find out more about treating a fever:

• How to reduce a fever
• Treatment tips for breaking a fever
• What are the best home remedies for fever?
• How to bring down a fever in babies

A person should seek medical help if they are unable to lower the fever on their own or if they suspect a more serious underlying condition. They should also contact a doctor if:

• a person experiences worsening symptoms
• they have a weakened immune system
• they reach a fever of 104°F (40ºC) or higher
• they are concerned about a fever in a child or older adult

A person can take NSAIDs and acetaminophen to help treat a fever at home. These medications can also help to treat additional symptoms, such as pain.

A person should consult a doctor if their fever lasts longer than a few days, causes additional symptoms, or does not go down with medication.

How to reduce the temperature at home: antipyretic drugs

We talk about the main groups of antipyretic drugs: what are the pitfalls, what should not be used with certain drugs, why they are needed at all and whether it is possible to do without them.

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High fever is a frequent companion of diseases. When and how should it be brought down, and is it possible to do without drugs?

Contents of the article

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

An increase in temperature is a protective reaction of the body to serious external or internal stimuli, such as infections, poisoning with any toxins, inflammatory processes, and others. Normally, the temperature of the human body does not exceed 37.1 degrees Celsius, but during the period of illness it rises, and depending on how much, different types of temperature are distinguished:

• subfebrile – up to 37.9 degrees Celsius, does not require the use of antipyretics, usually accompanies sluggish inflammatory processes;
• febrile – from 38 to 38.9 degrees Celsius, the body actively fights irritants, many microorganisms cannot withstand such a temperature, so it should be brought down only if the patient clearly feels unwell;
• pyretic – from 39 to 41 degrees Celsius, the protective reaction is out of control, doctors recommend lowering this temperature so as not to overload the body systems;
• hyperpyretic – over 41 degrees, in this case the patient needs medical help, it is unlikely that he will be able to get off with conventional means. If the child has a temperature, an ambulance should be called already at 40 degrees.

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In general, raising the temperature is rather beneficial: firstly, as we have already said, many microbes do not like it, and secondly, it has been proven that in this way the body helps the immune system work – it hunts for irritants more efficiently. But, like everywhere else, there are nuances: in this mode, the load on the heart and nervous system may increase, and children may experience convulsions. The temperature still needs to be brought down, and not only when it is too high (38.5 degrees and above), but also earlier – if there is a possibility of convulsions or if the patient’s condition requires it. There are two main ways to reduce the temperature: take an antipyretic or use folk methods (however, the methods can be combined).

Best antipyretics for high fever

Almost all fever reducers are non-steroidal (meaning they are not hormonal) anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In addition to fighting fever, they also reduce inflammation and reduce pain. Such a complex action allows the patient to feel better faster, because pains of various types are frequent companions of temperature. The only active substance commonly used in medicines with a different mechanism of action is paracetamol.

However, all antipyretics act in the same way: they affect the processes taking place in the hypothalamus, as a result of which less heat begins to form in the body, and more is released, due to which it, of course, cools down, and usually quite quickly – already after half an hour after taking a tablet, syrup or suppository, the temperature drops. Antipyretics are symptomatic treatment, they are not taken in courses, unlike other drugs, such as antibiotics. The purpose of fever-lowering drugs is to give temporary relief to a sick patient. At the same time, each of them has certain side effects, so when taking them, you need to weigh the pros and cons. Let’s talk about the main means used in Russia: about their action and some features. We note in advance that it is impossible to list all contraindications, side effects, interactions within the framework of this article, before using this or that drug, you need to read the instructions, and even better, consult a doctor who can weigh the risks for you personally. In addition, a particular person may have hypersensitivity to absolutely any drug or even be allergic to it, so even “banal” antipyretics should be used with caution at least the first time.

Paracetamol

There are many drugs with this active ingredient: panadol, calpol, tylenol, cefecon P, efferalgan – the list can be continued for a very long time. Paracetamol interacts with the hypothalamus, affecting the thermoregulatory center. This is one of the safest remedies, it can be used by both children and pregnant women, it helps to lower the temperature, thanks to it the pain subsides, but it does not fight inflammation very effectively. However, paracetamol is extremely common. The key recommendation of doctors when taking it is to follow the instructions in order to prevent an overdose.

Interaction: enhances the effect of coumarins, as well as drugs that harm the liver. Works worse with barbiturates. Some drugs may speed up or slow down absorption.

Contraindications: liver and kidney diseases, alcohol dependence.

Side effects: disruption of the circulatory system, kidneys, allergies.

Ibuprofen

Another drug that seems to be in all first aid kits. Demand for it is always stable (except perhaps during the coronavirus pandemic, for some time it was believed that ibuprofen should not be used for Covid-19 infection). Preparations with its content (a few examples) – nurofen, MIG, ibusan, bumidol. Ibuprofen, unlike paracetamol, also has an anti-inflammatory function – it weakens inflammatory processes, in addition, of course, it reduces the activity of thermoregulatory centers and drowns out pain. It works for a long time – up to 8 hours.

Interaction: reduces the effectiveness of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), enhances the action of an anticoagulant, should not be taken together with thrombolytics, barbiturates and ethanol, works worse with antacids, anesthetizes better in combination with caffeine.

Contraindications: Do not use in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy or while breastfeeding, gastrointestinal ulcers during exacerbation, asthma, kidney or liver dysfunction, certain diseases of the cardiovascular, circulatory system, skin.

Side effects: dysfunctions of ECT, liver, kidneys, allergies, reactions from the nervous system, circulatory system.

Acetylsalicylic acid

It is also the good old aspirin, as well as bufferin, mikristin, acylpyrine and others. Acetylsalicylic acid is useful not only for high temperature, inflammation and pain, but also for cardiovascular diseases. Like other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it affects the centers of thermoregulation and pain sensitivity, reduces inflammation. This active substance primarily works as an antipyretic for adults.

Interaction: should not be used together with paracetamol, caffeine, ethanol, glucocorticoids, diuretics, diabetes drugs, works worse with antacids.

Contraindications: certain diseases of the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal ulcers, acute liver or kidney failure. Do not take children, adolescents under 15 years of age, pregnant women with rare exceptions and breastfeeding.

Side effects: allergic reactions, disorders of the liver, gastrointestinal tract or kidneys, blood disorders.

Metamizole sodium

This name is not well known, but everyone knows the drug behind it – analgin (as well as baralgin M or optalgin). Basically, all these drugs are used as painkillers and sometimes anti-inflammatory, however, they also have antipyretic properties due to increased heat transfer. In many countries, the use of metamizole sodium has been questioned due to toxicity, but there is evidence that this toxicity occurs in people with a certain genetic defect.

Interaction: becomes stronger in combination with caffeine, codeine, barbiturates, toxic with antidepressants, oral contraceptives, should not be used with radiopaque agents. When injected, it must not be mixed with other drugs.

Contraindications: pregnancy, breast-feeding, impaired hematopoiesis, impaired liver and kidney function.

Side effects: allergy, hypotension, nephritis, blood diseases.

There are also a variety of medicines that combine several active ingredients at once. In this case, relief may come earlier, but, firstly, the side effects may be cumulative, and secondly, if the temperature needs to be brought down repeatedly, it may turn out that you have to choose between exceeding the daily dose (that is, the probable overdose) and the actual high temperature.

Paracetamol and ibuprofen-based single drugs are considered the most reliable and safe antipyretic drugs. If the regimen is followed, they have a minimum number of side effects, they can be used in the treatment of children, including infants, and these drugs have a lot of forms – syrups, suppositories, and tablets, so it is easy to choose a convenient method of use. Antipyretics are the easiest way to quickly reduce the temperature in an adult or child.

How to reduce the temperature at home without medication

If you suddenly find yourself somewhere where there is no pharmacy and you don’t have a supply of medicines with you, or you don’t want to use antipyretics for whatever reason, there are some folk methods of lowering the temperature. Perhaps they do this task more slowly than drugs specially designed for this purpose, but still they work.

• Rubbing with alcohol or vodka. Alcohol is diluted with water in a ratio of 1:1, vodka is used as is: moisten a cotton pad or a small towel with liquid and wipe the forehead, armpits, back of the hands. This should increase heat transfer (although some doctors doubt the effectiveness of the method). Not allowed for children.
• Rubbing with vinegar. Vinegar 9% is taken, diluted in proportion to a tablespoon per half liter of water. The solution can wipe the patient as a whole (for children – only the legs), for adults – make a compress on the head.
• Wiping with water.
• Tea with raspberries, cranberries, currants or juice from these berries also have anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. If we talk about decoctions – calendula, lime blossom, birch buds, oregano.
• Cool or cold plentiful drink.
• Cold water compresses.

Here are some more video tips:

If the temperature does not decrease with either folk remedies or antipyretic drugs, you should consult a doctor, this is especially important if the patient is a child, as children tolerate high temperatures worse. However, it is not useful for an adult to lie down for several days with a temperature of over 40 degrees, so medical assistance should not be neglected.

Temperature pills effective and inexpensive

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS NECESSARY. Antipyretic for adults Antipyretic for children Antipyretic suppositories Antipyretic syrups revna,

Diploma of pharmaceutical education: 105924 1197876, reg. number 30353

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Article contents

• To reduce temperature
• From high temperature
• Sources
• Ask an expert on the topic of the article

The temperature of a healthy person is kept within 36-37 degrees. When it rises, we begin to worry and try to bring it down. And alas, we often do it in vain.

An increase in temperature is a protective reaction of the body. This means that the internal mechanisms of immunity have turned on, aimed at fighting the disease and recovering. Of course, in the following situations, it is necessary to lower the temperature above 38 degrees:

• in infants under 2 months
• in children with a history of high fever accompanied by convulsions
• in children with lung and heart disease
• in adult patients who do not tolerate fever, have chronic diseases
• in the elderly

For other adults, according to the WHO recommendation, the temperature should be lowered only at values ​​above 38.5 degrees.

Pharmacist Natalya Zotina tells in her article about effective pills that lower the temperature in adults. Children are prescribed antipyretics, usually in the form of syrups and suppositories: Panadol syrup, Viburkol homeopathic suppositories, Cefekon D suppositories

Fever lowering

Two groups of drugs have the ability to lower fever: antipyretics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Antipyretic analgesics are known to all Paracetamol, Analgin and combination products containing them. Analgin effectively relieves pain and inflammation, but has an average antipyretic effect. In addition, the drug has a bad effect on the composition of the blood. Now tablets with analgin are practically not used for fever. But emergency care uses an analgin solution for injection in combination with diphenhydramine and papaverine for emergency help with high fever.

Another drug – Paracetamol – is considered one of the safest drugs and is approved for use in children from 3 months, pregnant and lactating women. It has a pronounced antipyretic and analgesic effect, helps with headaches. Effervescent soluble tablets with paracetamol are released to achieve a quick effect and ease of use. Paracetamol should not be combined with alcoholic beverages due to the high risk of toxic liver damage.

List of paracetamol tablets:

• Panadol
• Efferalgan
• Antigrippin (combination with ascorbic acid and chlorphenamine)
• Pentalgin NEO (combination with naproxen and caffeine)

All products Antigrippin

18 reviews

All products Panadol

20 reviews

All products Efferalgan

5 reviews

All products Pentalgin Neo

10 reviews

For high fever

Consider pills from the temperature from the second group – NSAIDs. These include drugs, which include acetylsalicylic acid and ibuprofen. They quickly reduce the temperature and have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.

Aspirin or acetylsalicylic acid is a well-known and effective medicine. The antipyretic effect of aspirin occurs within 15 minutes after taking the pill. But the drug has many contraindications. Aspirin is prohibited for acute respiratory viral infections in children under 15 years of age, with bronchial asthma, with exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases, liver failure and problems with blood clotting.

Ibuprofen is an antipyretic drug with proven efficacy and safety. It has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. Reduces temperature up to 8 hours. Children’s forms of ibuprofen are allowed for children from 3 months.

The use of the drug is not recommended in the I and II trimester of pregnancy, and in the III – it is prohibited. The drug, like aspirin, should not be used for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Do not take ibuprofen and aspirin at the same time. This will not affect the antipyretic effect, but it will increase the risk of adverse reactions.

List of popular tablets containing acetylsalicylic acid

ibuprofen :

• Nurofen
• Nurofast
• MIG 400
• Ibuklin (combination with paracetamol)

Which tablets are better to take at high temperature? The World Health Organization recommends preparations with ibuprofen and paracetamol.

Patients sometimes ask if a person with a fever can use inhalers and nebulizers? Yes, you can. This reduces the time of illness, including the temperature period.

All products of Nurofen

15 reviews

All products of Aspirin

20 reviews

All products of Mig

20 reviews

All products of Upsarin Upsa

5 reviews

Most drugstore antipyretics are sold without a prescription.