What to take to lower fever. Effective Fever Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide to Lowering Body Temperature
How can you effectively treat a fever at home. What are the key steps to break a fever safely. When should you seek medical attention for a fever. What are the different types of fever and their symptoms. How does fever affect different age groups differently. What are the best over-the-counter medications for fever reduction.
Understanding Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Temperature Ranges
Fever, also known as hyperthermia or pyrexia, is a common physiological response to various illnesses and conditions. It occurs when the body’s temperature rises above its normal range, typically as a defense mechanism against infections or other health issues. While fevers can be uncomfortable, they often play a crucial role in helping the immune system combat pathogens.
Common Causes of Fever
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Inflammatory conditions
- Autoimmune disorders
- Sunburn or heat exhaustion
- Certain medications or vaccinations
- Hormonal imbalances
Recognizing Fever Symptoms
Fever often accompanies other symptoms that can help identify its severity and underlying cause. These may include:
- General weakness and fatigue
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Decreased appetite
- Headache and muscle aches
- Sweating or chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Skin rashes
Temperature Ranges for Different Age Groups
Normal body temperature can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, activity level, and the method of measurement. Here’s a general guide to average body temperatures and fever ranges:
Age Group | Normal Range (Oral) | Fever Range |
---|---|---|
Infants (0-12 months) | 95.8-99.3°F (35.4-37.4°C) | >100.4°F (38°C) |
Children | 97.6-99.3°F (36.4-37.4°C) | >100.4°F (38°C) |
Adults | 96-98°F (35.6-36.7°C) | >100.4°F (38°C) |
Adults over 65 | 93-98.6°F (33.9-37°C) | >99.5°F (37.5°C) |
Home Remedies and Treatments for Breaking a Fever
When dealing with a mild to moderate fever, several home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. These methods are often effective for managing fevers in adults and older children:
1. Rest and Relaxation
Adequate rest is crucial for allowing the body to focus its energy on fighting the underlying cause of the fever. Stay in bed and avoid strenuous activities until your temperature returns to normal.
2. Hydration
Fever can lead to increased fluid loss through sweating. Drinking plenty of water, clear broths, or electrolyte-rich beverages helps prevent dehydration and supports the body’s natural cooling mechanisms.
3. Cool Compresses
Applying a cool, damp cloth to the forehead, wrists, or back of the neck can help lower body temperature and provide comfort. Avoid using very cold water or ice, as this may cause shivering and potentially raise body temperature.
4. Lightweight Clothing and Bedding
Dress in light, breathable clothing and use thin blankets to allow heat to dissipate from the body. However, if you experience chills, it’s okay to use a light cover for comfort.
5. Cool Environment
Maintain a comfortable room temperature, ideally between 70-72°F (21-22°C). Use fans or air conditioning if necessary to promote air circulation and cooling.
Over-the-Counter Medications for Fever Reduction
When home remedies aren’t sufficient, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can effectively reduce fever and alleviate associated symptoms. The two primary types of fever-reducing medications are:
1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is a popular choice for fever reduction due to its effectiveness and relatively low risk of side effects. It works by affecting the brain’s temperature-regulating center.
2. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) not only reduce fever but also help alleviate pain and inflammation. They work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in the fever response.
When using OTC medications, always follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Special Considerations for Fever in Children
Fever in children often requires different approaches and considerations compared to adults. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the following guidelines:
Age-Specific Temperature Thresholds
- Infants 0-3 months: Rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher requires immediate medical attention.
- Infants 3-6 months: Temperatures up to 102°F (38.9°C) may not need treatment if the baby is otherwise healthy and active.
- Children over 6 months: Fever alone may not be a cause for concern if the child is responsive and drinking fluids.
Medication Dosage for Children
When administering fever-reducing medications to children, it’s crucial to use the correct dosage based on the child’s weight, not age. Always use the measuring device provided with the medication for accurate dosing.
Avoiding Certain Medications
Aspirin should not be given to children or teenagers with fever-like symptoms due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain.
When to Seek Medical Attention for a Fever
While most fevers can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical care. Be vigilant for the following scenarios:
Adults
- Fever above 103°F (39.4°C) that doesn’t respond to treatment
- Fever lasting more than three days
- Severe headache or neck stiffness
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain
- Unusual skin rash, especially if it’s purple or bruise-like
Children
- Any fever in infants under 3 months old
- Fever above 102°F (38.9°C) in children 3-6 months old
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours in children under 2 years
- Fever accompanied by severe headache, neck stiffness, or purple skin rash
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, decreased urination)
- Seizures or convulsions
Fever in Special Populations: Precautions and Considerations
Certain groups of people may be more vulnerable to the effects of fever or require special attention when managing elevated body temperatures. These include:
1. Older Adults
Elderly individuals may not exhibit typical fever symptoms and might have a lower temperature threshold for fever. They are also more susceptible to complications from fever, such as dehydration and confusion.
2. Immunocompromised Individuals
People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or undergoing chemotherapy, may be more prone to developing fevers and are at higher risk for severe infections. Any fever in this population should be taken seriously and evaluated by a healthcare provider.
3. Pregnant Women
Fever during pregnancy can potentially affect fetal development, especially in the first trimester. Pregnant women with fever should consult their obstetrician for appropriate management and medication use.
4. Individuals with Chronic Medical Conditions
People with conditions such as heart disease, lung problems, or diabetes may experience exacerbation of their symptoms during a fever and may require closer monitoring or adjusted treatment plans.
Understanding the Role of Fever in the Immune Response
While fever can be uncomfortable, it’s important to recognize its potential benefits in fighting infections and supporting the immune system. Here’s how fever contributes to the body’s defense mechanisms:
1. Enhanced Immune Function
Elevated body temperature can increase the production and activity of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. It also accelerates the body’s metabolic processes, potentially speeding up healing and recovery.
2. Inhibition of Pathogen Growth
Many harmful bacteria and viruses struggle to survive and reproduce at higher temperatures. By raising body temperature, fever creates an environment less favorable for these pathogens.
3. Activation of Heat Shock Proteins
Fever triggers the production of heat shock proteins, which help protect cells from damage and support overall immune function.
4. Improved Antibody Production
Higher body temperatures can enhance the production and effectiveness of antibodies, which are essential for identifying and neutralizing harmful pathogens.
Given these potential benefits, it’s not always necessary to aggressively treat low-grade fevers in otherwise healthy individuals. However, comfort measures and careful monitoring are still important to ensure the fever doesn’t become too high or persist for too long.
Preventing Fever and Boosting Immune Health
While not all fevers can be prevented, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing fever-causing infections and support your overall immune health:
1. Practice Good Hygiene
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom
- Avoid touching your face, particularly your mouth, nose, and eyes
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home and workspace
2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
- Get regular exercise to boost your immune system and overall health
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques, meditation, or yoga
3. Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccinations
Keeping your vaccinations current can help prevent many infectious diseases that cause fever. Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you and your family members are up-to-date on recommended immunizations.
4. Avoid Exposure to Sick Individuals
When possible, limit contact with people who are ill, especially if they have contagious infections. If you must be around sick individuals, take extra precautions such as wearing a mask and practicing good hand hygiene.
5. Support Your Immune System with Supplements
While a balanced diet should provide most necessary nutrients, some supplements may help support immune function. Consider discussing the following options with your healthcare provider:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Zinc
- Probiotics
- Elderberry
Remember that supplements should not replace a healthy diet and lifestyle but can be used as an additional support for immune health.
By implementing these preventive measures and maintaining overall health, you can potentially reduce your risk of developing fevers and other illnesses. However, it’s important to remember that some fevers are inevitable and serve a purpose in the body’s natural defense mechanisms. When fever does occur, use the guidelines provided in this article to manage it effectively and know when to seek medical attention.
How to Break a Fever
You may be able to break a fever at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. But a person with a high fever may need medical attention.
People may refer to a fever as hyperthermia, pyrexia, or elevated temperature. It is a state of heightened body temperature commonly occurring as a reaction to an illness. Fevers can also result from sunburn or from getting immunizations.
People with compromised immune systems may tend to have fevers more often than others.
Fevers are typically temporary and resolve independently. However, severe fevers can indicate a serious underlying condition and be a medical emergency.
This article discusses how to assess a fever’s severity and ways to break a fever at home.
If you or someone you’re caring for has a fever, follow these steps to break the fever:
- Stay in bed and rest.
- Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water to replenish lost fluids.
- Take over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen to reduce fever.
- Stay cool by removing extra layers of clothing and blankets unless you have the chills.
- Avoid contact with others until the fever resolves.
However, in cases of severe or persistent fever, emergency assistance may be necessary.
Fevers aren’t one-size-fits-all, and neither are their symptoms. Your comfort level and symptoms can help you decide how to treat a fever. If you have a fever, you may experience the following symptoms:
- weakness
- lightheadedness
- loss of appetite
- headache
- muscle aches
- sweating
- chills
- nausea
- vomiting
- rash
A person’s body average body temperature can vary depending on age, sex, activity level, and the site at which a temperature is taken. For example, a body temperature reading at a person’s ear, mouth, or armpit will yield different results.
Below are average body temperature values by demographic and temperature site.
Age | Oral | Rectal/Ear | Armpit |
---|---|---|---|
0–12 months | 95. 8–99.3°F (36.7–37.3°C) | 96.8–100.3°F (37–37.9°C) | 94.8–98.3°F (36.4–37.3°C) |
Children | 97.6–99.3°F (36.4–37.4°C) | 98.6–100.3°F (37–37.9°C) | 96.6–98.3°F (35.9–36.83°C) |
Adults | 96–98°F (35.6–36.7°C) | 97–99°F (36.1–37.2°C) | 95–97°F (35–36.1°C) |
Adults over age 65 | 93–98.6°F (33.9–37°C) | 94–99.6°F (34.4–37.6°C) | 92–97.6°F (33.3–36.4°C) |
Learn more about body temperature and its measurement here.
Many pediatricians recommend using rectal thermometers for infants and babies. Discuss with your doctor which type of thermometer to use. You should also tell them what kind of thermometer you used to record your child’s temperature.
Temperature ranges for fever
Below are typical body temperature ranges that may indicate fever in adults:
- Low fever: 99. 1–100.4°F (37.3–38.0°C)
- Moderate fever: 100.6–102.2°F (38.1–39.0°C)
- High fever: 102.4–105.8°F (39.1–41°C)
- Hyperthermia: Greater than 105.8°F (41°C)
The average body temperature of children and toddlers is around 97.52°F (36.4°C) but this can vary depending on a child’s age, health status, and thermometer location.
Similarly to adults, temperatures around 38°C and above may indicate fever.
How and when you should treat a fever can vary depending on a person’s age and associated symptoms. If left untreated, fever can lead to serious complications in young children, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.
Adults with a fever and other symptoms, such as a stiff neck, severe pain anywhere in the body, or shortness of breath, should seek immediate medical attention.
Similarly, if your fever goes above 103°F (39.4°C) or doesn’t respond to treatment, it may be best to seek medical assistance.
Infants and toddlers
A doctor should see infants up to 3 months old with a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or above. They should still see a doctor even if there are no other symptoms present.
Babies 3 to 6 months old may not require treatment for fevers up to 102°F (38.9°C). If your baby has other symptoms or their fever goes above 102°F (38.9°C), call your doctor.
Immunocompromized states
If you have a weakened immune system and start experiencing fever, seek medical assistance. A compromised immune system is common in people with HIV, cancer, or autoimmune diseases.
Fever is often a sign of infection. Sometimes, these infections are fast-moving or hard to treat. So if you have a compromised immune system, getting immediate medical support for fever is important.
First Aid Information for Fever in hildren
Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
- Call 911 if the person is:
- 1. Take Temperature
- 2. Treat Fever, if Necessary
- 3. Give Liquids
- 4. When to Contact a Doctor
- 5. Follow Up
- More
Also seek emergency medical help for any of the following:
- A fever combined with a stiff neck or headache
- Temperature above 105 F
- Fever with sudden onset of rash
- Temperature can be taken orally, rectally, or under the armpit.
- A person is typically considered feverish if oral temperature is above 100 F (37.8 C) or rectal temperature is above 99.5 F (37.5 C). Temperatures measured under the armpit are not considered as accurate and can be as much as 1 degree F lower than an oral measurement.
- A temperature above normal but below 100.4 F (38 C) is sometimes considered a low-grade or mild fever. It may mean that the body is responding to an infection.
No treatment is necessary for a mild fever unless the person is uncomfortable. If the fever is 102 or higher:
- Give an over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) as directed on the label. Check with your doctor first if you have any medical conditions or take other medicines. Warning: Do NOT give aspirin to anyone age 18 or younger unless directed to do so by a doctor.
- Bathing or sponging in lukewarm water may bring the temperature down. Do not use cold water or alcohol.
- Have the person wear light clothing and use a light cover or sheet — overdressing can make body temperature go up. If the person gets chills, use an extra blanket until they go away.
- Have the person drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Seek medical help immediately if the person has:
- A history of serious illness such as AIDS, heart disease, cancer, or diabetes, or if the person is taking immunosuppressant drugs
- A high fever that doesn’t respond to fever-reducing medicine
- Been exposed to extremely hot weather and feels hot but is not sweating
- A stiff neck, is confused, or has trouble staying awake
- Severe pain in the lower abdomen
- Severe stomach pain, vomits repeatedly, or has severe diarrhea
- Skin rashes, blisters, or a red streak on an arm or leg
- A severe sore throat, swelling of the throat, or a persistent earache
- Pain with urination, back pain, or shaking chills
- A severe cough, coughs up blood, or has trouble breathing
Contact a doctor if the high body temperature lasts for more than 3 days or gets worse.
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How to lower 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,
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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 Natalia 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
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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.
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Most drugstore antipyretics are sold without a prescription.