Best Fever Tablets

1. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) - First Choice for Most People

• Reduces fever and relieves mild-to-moderate pain
• Does NOT reduce inflammation (not an NSAID)
• Safe for most ages including children and pregnant women
• Gentler on the stomach than NSAIDs
• Dose (adults): 500 mg - 1000 mg every 4-6 hours, max 4g/day
• Best for: Fever with cold/flu, headache, general body ache, people with stomach sensitivity

Lippincott Pharmacology: "Acetaminophen is the analgesic/antipyretic of choice" for patients who need fever control without anti-inflammatory action.

2. Ibuprofen - Strong Second Option (Also Anti-inflammatory)

• Reduces fever AND inflammation (NSAID)
• Works slightly faster and lasts a bit longer than paracetamol in some studies
• Dose (adults): 200-400 mg every 6-8 hours, with food
• Best for: Fever with body inflammation, muscle pain, dental pain, period pain

A meta-analysis (PMC) found ibuprofen provided slightly better fever and pain reduction in children within the first 24 hours, with equivalent safety.

3. Aspirin - Avoid in Children

• Effective antipyretic in adults
• Avoid in children under 16 - risk of Reye's syndrome (rare but serious liver/brain condition)
• Also avoid in people with stomach ulcers or bleeding risk

Quick Comparison Table

Who Should Use What?

• Children: Paracetamol first; ibuprofen is an alternative from 3 months+
• Adults with stomach issues: Paracetamol
• Adults with body inflammation/muscle pain: Ibuprofen
• Pregnant women: Paracetamol (avoid ibuprofen especially in 3rd trimester)
• Elderly: Paracetamol preferred (ibuprofen has kidney/cardiovascular risks)

Note: Paracetamol and ibuprofen can be alternated (not combined) every 3-4 hours under medical guidance for stubborn fevers. Always follow dosage instructions, and consult a doctor if fever exceeds 39.5°C (103°F), lasts more than 3 days, or occurs in an infant under 3 months.