Medications for Fever (Antipyretics)

1. Acetaminophen (Paracetamol / Tylenol)

• How it works: Inhibits prostaglandin (PGE₂) synthesis in the CNS, lowering the hypothalamic temperature set point.
• Adult dose: 500–1000 mg every 4–6 hours (max 4 g/day)
• Child dose: ~15 mg/kg every 4–6 hours
• Why preferred: Does not irritate the stomach, does not affect platelets, safe in children with viral infections or chickenpox (unlike aspirin, which risks Reye syndrome).
• Caution: Avoid or reduce dose in liver disease, alcoholism, or malnutrition — overdose causes serious liver damage. Antidote: N-acetylcysteine.

2. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) — an NSAID

• Adult dose: 200–400 mg every 4–6 hours (max 1200 mg/day OTC; up to 3200 mg/day under medical supervision)
• Child dose: ~10 mg/kg every 6–8 hours
• Advantages: Often more potent fever reduction than acetaminophen alone.
• Cautions: Can irritate the stomach (take with food), avoid in kidney disease, peptic ulcer disease, pregnancy (especially 3rd trimester), and bleeding disorders.

3. Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid)

• Adult dose: 325–650 mg every 4–6 hours
• ⚠️ NOT for children or teenagers with viral illness — risk of Reye syndrome (severe liver and brain damage).
• Also avoid in peptic ulcer disease and bleeding disorders.

4. Naproxen (Aleve) — an NSAID

• Longer-acting option; useful when sustained fever control is needed.
• Adult dose: 220–440 mg every 8–12 hours
• Similar cautions as ibuprofen.

Non-Drug Measures (Supportive)

• Tepid sponging (lukewarm water, not cold) — helps lower body temperature
• Adequate hydration — fever increases fluid loss
• Light clothing/cool environment

Key Practical Points

Important: Fever is usually a sign of an underlying condition (infection, inflammation, etc.). If fever is very high (>39.5°C / 103°F), persistent for more than 3 days, or accompanied by serious symptoms (stiff neck, difficulty breathing, rash, confusion), seek medical attention rather than just treating the fever symptomatically.