🧪 Paracetamol Oral Liquid 120 mg/5 mL (Pediatric Use)
📘 Description:
Paracetamol 120 mg/5 mL oral liquid is a pediatric formulation used to relieve fever and mild to moderate pain in children. It’s often flavored (e.g., orange, strawberry) to improve palatability and is easy to administer using a dropper or measuring spoon.
🔬 Nature / Mechanism of Action:
Paracetamol (also called acetaminophen) acts:
- Centrally in the brain to reduce fever via the hypothalamic heat-regulating center
- By inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, helping with pain control
Unlike NSAIDs, it lacks anti-inflammatory action and is gentle on the stomach.
🩺 Prescription / Common Uses:
| Indication | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fever (Pyrexia) | Viral or bacterial infections |
| Teething pain | Gum swelling, discomfort |
| Post-vaccination | Fever or soreness after immunization |
| Cold & Flu symptoms | Headache, body aches, mild throat pain |
| Minor injuries | Sprains, bumps, or earaches |
✅ Advantages:
- Safe for infants and young children
- Gentle on stomach (non-irritant)
- Effective for fever and discomfort relief
- Often flavored for better child compliance
- Fast-acting, starts working within 30–60 minutes
⚠️ Precautions:
- Do not exceed recommended dose—may cause liver toxicity
- Avoid other paracetamol-containing medications at the same time
- Use weight-based dosing for better accuracy
- Shake bottle well before use
📏 Typical Dosage (By Weight):
| Child’s Weight | Dose (120 mg/5 mL syrup) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 5–8 kg | 2.5 mL | Every 6 hours if needed |
| 9–12 kg | 5 mL | Every 6 hours if needed |
| 13–16 kg | 7.5 mL | Every 6 hours if needed |
| 17–20 kg | 10 mL | Every 6 hours if needed |
✅ Always consult a pediatrician before dosing for infants under 3 months.
📦 Storage:
- Store at room temperature (15–25°C)
- Keep bottle tightly closed and away from light
- Do not refrigerate unless instructed
- Keep out of reach of children