Knowing how and when to give your baby painkillers can seem overwhelming, so we’ve taken a look at the medicine Calpol to answer all your common questions.
Calpol contains paracetamol, which is a medicine used to relieve moderate pains and fevers and can be used to relieve mild to moderate pains, such as headaches, toothache, teething pains or a sore throat. Calpol can also be used to reduce high temperatures, and treat the fever and pains associated with colds and flu. Calprofen, another product in the Calpol range does not contain paracetamol, it is an ibuprofen-only medicine.
Of course, it’s important to note that it’s always worth checking with your GP if you are worried about your baby’s health, before administering Calpol.
Why is some Calpol pink and some white?
The different Calpol products come in a number of different flavours and colourings. For example, the Calpol Infant Suspension range for babies aged from 2 months to 6 years comes in strawberry flavour, with sugar free options available. The Calcough Infant Syrup for tickly coughs is apple flavour and is colour and sugar free, so will be a white colour.
Is Calpol gluten-free?
According to Coeliac UK, if wheat starch has not been used in a medicinal product, the product can be regarded as gluten-free. As the Calpol Infant Suspension range does not have wheat starch listed on the ingredients, it can be considered gluten free, however always check with your GP beforehand if you are unsure.
Is Calpol vegan?
According to The Vegan Society, the following Calpol products are all considered to be vegan:
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Calpol Infant Suspension
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Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension
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Calpol Sugar Free Colour Free Oral Suspension
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Calpol Six Plus Suspension
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Calpol Six Plus Sugar-Free Suspension
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Calpol Six Plus Fast Melts
Is Calpol good for teething?
There are lots of different natural remedies when it comes to soothing teething pain, but if your baby does seem uncomfortable, you can use paracetamol or a sugar-free teething gel, which has a mild anaesthetic to numb sore gums. The Calgel Teething Gel made by Calpol is only suitable for babies from three months.
What is a Calpol plug in?
The Calpol Soothe & Care Plug & Nightlight releases soothing lavender and camomile vapours to soothe your baby and help promote clear and easy breathing. These can be used from three months old and will last up to eight hours. Read our top tips on unblocking your baby’s nose here.
What dosage of Calpol is right for my baby?
As with all medications, always follow the instructions on the packaging when it comes to the dosage of Calpol to give your baby. The dosage must be measured using a measuring spoon or an oral syringe, never an ordinary teaspoon.
When should I give my baby Calpol post immunisation?
It is common for some babies to develop a fever after an immunisation appointment. If your little one seems unwell after an injection, always check with your nurse or GP. Normal side effects include swelling, redness and a small, hard, lump, as well as a mild fever. If your baby is having a seizure, has a blotchy red rash that doesn’t change colour when a glass is placed against it or is having breathing difficulties, call 999 immediately.
You should contact your GP if your baby has a fever, and a temperature:
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Of 38 degrees or higher if they are under 3 months.
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Of 39 degrees or higher if they are between 3 to 6 months.
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Of 37.5 degrees or higher if they are over 6 months and have other signs of being unwell such as floppiness and drowsiness.
Your GP might recommend giving your baby paracetamol or ibuprofen to bring their temperature down, however always check beforehand and read the medication’s instructions carefully.
Can I use Calpol if my baby was born premature?
According to the guidelines on Calpol’s website, Calpol Infant Suspension can be used in babies from two months old, provided the weigh at least 4kg and were not born before 37 weeks. If your child was premature, it’s always a good idea to check with your GP before using Calpol.