Description
Overview
How does Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar-Free relieve fever? Calpol Infant Suspension is the gold-standard treatment for lowering high temperatures (pyrexia) in young children. The active ingredient is Paracetamol (120mg per 5ml). When a child has an infection or a reaction to a vaccination, the body produces chemicals called prostaglandins that reset the brain’s “thermostat” (the hypothalamus) to a higher temperature.
Calpol Infant Suspension works by inhibiting the production of these prostaglandins in the brain. This signals the hypothalamus to lower the body’s temperature set-point back to normal, causing the fever to break and the child to cool down, often within 15 to 30 minutes of administration.
How does Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar-Free treat pain? In addition to fighting fever, Calpol Infant Suspension is an effective analgesic (painkiller). It blocks the transmission of pain signals to the brain. This makes it highly effective for relieving the discomfort associated with teething, sore throats, earaches, and headaches. By reducing the sensation of pain, it helps distressed babies to settle and sleep, which is crucial for their recovery.
Why is the Sugar-Free formula important for infants? The “Sugar-Free” formulation is specifically designed to protect emerging milk teeth. Traditional syrups often contained sucrose, which, if left on the teeth (especially during night-time doses), could lead to early childhood caries (tooth decay). Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar-Free uses sweeteners like Maltitol to provide the palatable Strawberry flavour that children accept easily, without the risk of damaging their developing dental enamel.
Who Is It For
Who is Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar-Free suitable for? Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar-Free is suitable for babies and children aged 2 months to 6 years.
2 Months: It can be used specifically for fever following vaccinations (meningitis B or other routine jabs).
3 Months+: It is suitable for general pain and fever relief for children weighing over 4kg. It is the ideal choice for parents needing a reliable, gentle painkiller that is easier on the stomach than ibuprofen (which must be taken with food).
Usage Instructions
How to use the measuring syringe correctly? To ensure the correct dose is given, Calpol Infant Suspension includes a specific 5ml dosing syringe.
Shake: Shake the bottle for at least 10 seconds before use.
Insert: Push the syringe firmly into the plug (hole) in the neck of the bottle.
Invert: Turn the bottle upside down.
Draw: Pull the plunger down to the required mark (2.5ml or 5ml) to fill the syringe with suspension.
Turn: Turn the bottle upright and remove the syringe.
Administer: Place the tip of the syringe inside the child’s mouth against the cheek. Slowly press the plunger to release the medicine.
What is the correct dosage? Dosage depends on the child’s age:
3-6 Months: 2.5ml up to 4 times a day.
6-24 Months: 5ml up to 4 times a day.
2-4 Years: 7.5ml (5ml + 2.5ml) up to 4 times a day.
4-6 Years: 10ml (5ml + 5ml) up to 4 times a day.
Post-Vaccination (2 Months): One 2.5ml dose. If fever persists, a second 2.5ml dose can be given after 4-6 hours. Do not give more than 2 doses without medical advice
Warnings
When must Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar-Free be used with caution? Contains Paracetamol: Do not give this medicine with any other product containing paracetamol (e.g., some cold and flu remedies), as this can lead to an overdose which causes severe liver damage. Interval: Leave at least 4 hours between doses. Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period. Duration: Do not give for more than 3 days without consulting a doctor. If symptoms persist, medical advice is needed. Ingredients: Contains Maltitol, which may have a mild laxative effect.
Alternatives
Common alternatives to Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar-Free? If Calpol is not suitable or effective, common alternatives include:
Nurofen for Children (Ibuprofen): An anti-inflammatory suspension (orange or strawberry) that is often more effective for teething pain or high fevers associated with inflammation. It can be alternated with Calpol if advised by a healthcare professional.
Generic Paracetamol Suspension: Many pharmacies sell “unbranded” infant paracetamol (120mg/5ml) which is chemically identical to Calpol but significantly cheaper.
Calpol Six Plus: For children aged 6 years and over, this contains double the concentration of paracetamol (250mg/5ml) to reduce the volume of liquid needed.
Ashton & Parsons Teething Powders: A herbal alternative specifically for teething pain if parents wish to avoid giving paracetamol frequently.
Neurofen Meltlets: For older children who dislike liquid, these dissolve on the tongue.
