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Rectal paracetamol in small children with fever
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|June 1, 1979
Summary
Paracetamol effectively reduces fever in children, regardless of whether it
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Therapeutics
Background:
- Fever management in children is crucial for comfort and preventing complications.
- Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is a widely used antipyretic agent in pediatric populations.
- Administration route can impact efficacy and adherence in young patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the antipyretic efficacy of oral versus rectal paracetamol in febrile children.
- To evaluate the practicality of rectal paracetamol as an alternative administration route.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 37 febrile children aged 3 months to 6 years.
- Administration of paracetamol at a dose of 15-20 mg/kg via oral elixir or rectal suppository.
- Assessment of antipyretic effect following administration.
Main Results:
- Both oral and rectal paracetamol demonstrated comparable antipyretic effects.
- The rectal route proved to be a practical alternative for children unable to take oral medication.
Conclusions:
- Rectal paracetamol offers equivalent fever reduction to oral administration in children.
- The rectal route provides a viable and practical option for pediatric fever management when oral intake is challenging.
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