The optimal choice of an analgesic and antipyretic drug in paediatric practice

Abstract

Onset of fever and pain syndrome in children is one of the most frequent reasons parents take their children to a paediatrician. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used to relieve such symptoms. The mechanism of action of NSAIDs is to inhibit the activity of the enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). Paracetamol, one of the drugs that inhibit COX, exerts its pharmacodynamic effect in the central nervous system, thereby providing antipyretic and analgesic effects, but it is ineffective in stopping inflammation. Such common conditions in children as fever and pain syndrome of mild to medium intensity are among the indications for use of Efferalgan containing paracetamol as an active ingredient. Solution and rectal suppositories are the most commonly used dosage forms of Efferalgan in children, as these dosage forms can be used, when the child reaches 1 and 3 months of age, respectively. The correct dose of paracetamol for a child depends on their weight. It should be remembered that the relief of a fever or pain syndrome is a symptomatic treatment. Therefore, if they appear, you should visit a doctor to identify carefully the possible cause and select the appropriate therapy.

Keywords

• fever in children
• pain syndrome in children
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• paracetamol