June 10, 2008

Paracetamol and ibuprofen are equally effective for relieving pain in children, but paracetamol may have fewer side effects so is generally the preferred treatment.

This advice comes from Dr Sean Beggs, a general paediatrician and paediatric clinical pharmacologist at the Royal Hobart Hospital, in the current issue of Australian Prescriber.

Dr Beggs says codeine can vary in effectiveness and is not generally recommended.

However, the article states there are times when paracetamol may be inappropriate, depending on the type of pain being treated and whether the child is taking other medicines.

It is critically important that parents give their children the correct dose of medicine – according to the label.

Dr Beggs says parents should not increase the dose if their child is heavier or larger than other children his or her age, as large doses of paracetamol can cause liver damage.

For the complete article visit the Australian Prescriber website www.australianprescriber.com.

ENDS

Australian Prescriber is an independent peer-reviewed journal providing critical commentary on therapeutic topics for health professionals, particularly doctors in general practice. It is published by the National Prescribing Service Limited (NPS),an independent, non-profit organisation for Quality Use of Medicines funded by theAustralian Government Department of Health and Ageing.

For independent information on prescription, over-the-counter and complementary medicines, consumers can call Medicines Line on 1300 888 763 to talk to a pharmacist between 9am and 6pm Monday to Friday, Eastern Standard Time (EST) for the cost of a local call (mobile calls may cost more).