Choosing the right pain relief for your child

Nurofen for Children contains ibuprofen, to provide fast and effective relief of pain and fever in infants and children.

The Nurofen for Children range is designed to provide a Nurofen dose that’s appropriate for babies and children. The concentrated formula means that you only need to give your baby a small amount. In addition, all products in the range come with an easy dosing syringe, making it easier to you give your child the correct dose.

• Check with your doctor or pharmacist first, if your child is under 12 months of age
• Always read the label
• Ensure you use the product and dose suitable for your child’s age.

Calculate your child’s recommended dose using our ibuprofen dosage calculator.

The recommended dose of Nurofen for Children varies depending on the weight and age of your child. Start by selecting the right product for your child’s age range. Then, check the dosing guide on the back of the pack to determine the right dose for your child’s age and weight.

Doses should be given every 6–8 hours, as needed, with a maximum of 3 doses in 24 hours.

It’s inevitable that your child will experience some pain now and then – whether it’s from illness, minor accidents, or normal growing up events like teething.

Common causes of pain in babies and children include:

• Earache
• Coughs and sore throat
• Teething and toothache
• Headaches and migraine
• Strains and sprains
• Fever.

Very young children can’t tell you when they’re in pain. Some signs to look for include:

• Crying, screaming and grimacing
• Changes in sleep and eating patterns
• Becoming quiet and withdrawn
• Restlessness.

Mild to moderate pain and fever can be relieved using non-prescription medicines such as Nurofen, given at age-appropriate doses. Always choose a medicine that is formulated for your child’s age.

Nurofen for Children is designed for children and infants. It contains ibuprofen, which starts providing relief from fever in just 15 minutes, and lasts up to 8 hours.

Medicine is not always needed to relieve mild pain. Other ways you may be able to help your little one feel better include:

• Cuddling and reassurance
• Distraction with games, a story, or television
• Use of ice or heat packs, or teething rings.

Medicines can help relieve pain for a while, but they don’t fix the underlying cause of pain.

See a doctor if your child’s pain lasts more than a few hours, or appears to be very severe, or your child is obviously unwell, it’s important to see a doctor. If in doubt, always see your doctor.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional. Do not give to babies under 3 months of age. Seek medical advice for children under 12 months of age.

All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health related matters please contact your doctor.

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References

• The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. Pain relief for children – paracetamol and ibuprofen. Available at: www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Pain_relief_for_children_-_Paracetamol_and_Ibuprofen/ Accessed 04 September 2014.
• Pelen F et al. Ann Pediatr 1998; 45(10): 719–28, funded by Reckitt Benckiser.
• 3.Autret-Leca et al. Curr Med Res Opin 2007; 23(9): 2205­–11, funded by Reckitt Benckiser.
• Colmar Brunton OMNI Research, June 2014.
• Yin HS et al. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med 2010; 164(2): 181–6.