Ibuprofen
A good option for children?
Ibuprofen is what's known as a NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) and works by changing the body's response to high temperature, pain and swelling. It blocks the action of a substance called cyclooxygenase which is involved in the production of prostaglandins (the chemicals that cause pain, swelling and inflammation in the tissues of the body). Ibuprofen is an effective pain reliever. It's the active ingredient in Nurofen for Children (which is suitable for babies from 3 months, over 5kg).
Nurofen for Children goes straight to the source of the fever, where it helps to adjust the controls of your baby's little thermostat, helping to reduce temperatures higher than 39.2°C more effectively than paracetamol-based medicines. It also reduces fever longer than paracetamol - up to 8 hours.
What can it be used for?
Sprains and strains, toothache, teething pains, headaches, fever, earache, the symptoms of cold and flu.
Paracetamol
A good option for children?
Paracetamol is a good choice for easing childhood pain and bringing a temperature down. It's gentle on the tummy, making some brands suitable from 2 months onwards. It appears to work by inhibiting an enzyme produced in the brain and spinal cord (COX-3), which is involved in the transmission of pain.
What can it be used for?
It is good for toothaches, headaches, fever, the symptoms of cold & flu and general pains.
Because it doesn't have anti-inflammatory properties, you can't use paracetamol to reduce swelling and it’s less effective in fever than ibuprofen.
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