Does paracetamol reduce fever

Answer 1

Over-the-counter pain relievers are good for a headache and the general aches and pains of a cold. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are preferred, as aspirin may increase viral shedding, and can cause Reye's syndrome (a potentially fatal illness) in children under 16 years of age. If you have a history of ulcers or past bleeding disorders, you should check with your doctor before taking medication containing ibuprofen. A nasal decongestant can help loosen secretions and keep the upper respiratory tract clear. Cough suppressants generally are not recommended for a cold because coughing is a good way to clear secretions. Alternative Medicine Some natural remedies may help you fight a cold. Vitamin C will not prevent a cold, but may shorten its duration.

One review of the available research on the link between vitamin C and colds revealed that taking very large doses (1,000 mg to 6,000 mg) daily at the onset of a cold would shorten its duration by one day. Zinc may protect against colds and other infections.

The mineral zinc is needed for the immune system to function properly. In one study of people who were just coming down with a cold, those who took zinc lozenges recovered faster (about three days on average) than those given placebo lozenges. Taking more than 100 mg of zinc daily on a long-term basis, however, can hurt the immune system and interfere with copper absorption.

Answer 2

Yes Paracetamol can used to reduce a viral fever, however Ibuprofen is know to be even better at reducing a fever and can be used alongside paracetamol. Try with the Ibuprofen first and if the fever isn't coming down as well as hoped you can alternate between paracetamol and ibuprofen at 2 hr intervals eg 1pm ibuprofen 3pm Paracetamol 5pm Ibuprofen 7pm paracetamol etc etc etc. But be sure not to take more than the maximum daily limit. If its a child keep the time between each type of drug to the specified amount.

Answer 3

Yes paracetamol can reduce a fever or "temperature". Paracetamol is also known as acetaminophen in the US and one of its trade names is Tylenol.