Talk Details · PDDS 2025

Is paracetamol (acetaminophen) still a first line option for pain and fever in paediatrics?

Oral · Day 1

Abstract

About this talk

Background and Aim: Effective analgesia and fever management in children from birth remain crucial. This study aims to provide updated insights into the use of paracetamol in pediatric care.

Methods: A comprehensive bibliographic search was conducted, focusing on clinical studies, reviews, and meta-analyses regarding the analgesic and antipyretic effects of paracetamol in children. Safety information is based on well-known safety data for paracetamol, recent studies and meta-analyses as well as authorities recommendations.

Results: The analgesic efficacy of paracetamol at a dosage of 15 mg/kg was demonstrated in conditions such as headaches, migraines, traumatic pain, ENT conditions, and post- operative pain following dental extraction. Due to its central COX independent antinociceptive action, paracetamol could be preferred to NSAID for mild-to- moderate acute pain. Its antipyretic efficacy was also demonstrated in several studies. Overall, Paracetamol is safe in children, and undesirable effects at therapeutic doses are rare.

Conclusions: Paracetamol has demonstrated a favorable efficacy and safety profile from birth for both analgesia and antipyresis. It is recommended as the first-line treatment for fever and mild to moderate pain by leading scientific societies.

Speaker

About the speaker

Rassa Pegahi

Rassa Pegahi

UPSA, France

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