Fever reducers don't slow children's recovery: study

A review of past research finds that fever-reducing drugs have no effect on the speed of children's recovery from an infection, contrary to the fears of some doctors and parents.

Researchers have debated for decades whether lowering a sick child's fever helps the recovery process or interferes with the body's ability to fight the infection.

Some previous research has shown that giving children fever-reducing "antipyretic" medications, such as acetaminophen, after vaccinations interfered with their immune responses to the vaccines, for example.

"There's no evidence that antipyretics slow down recovery," said Alison While, a professor of community nursing at King's College London and senior author of the new study.

Nevertheless, While and her coauthor caution in their report in the Journal of Pediatrics, their findings don't mean they encourage parents to use the medications at the first sign of fever either.

"Many many parents are using antipyretics with small children whenever they get a slightly raised temperature. This is madness," While told Reuters Health.

Because of the ongoing debate and the fact that few researchers have examined the health benefits or harms in reducing a fever during illness, While and colleague Edward Purssell combed the literature.

They found only six clinical studies that examined the effect of using anti-fever medications on a total of 657 sick children.

Tips for Choosing Fever Reducers

Consider the cause. The influenza (flu) virus can cause fever. Infection is more likely during flu season, which runs October through April. If you suspect you have flu, consult your doctor right away. Prescription anti-flu medications work best when taken within one to two days of symptom onset.

Scan ingredient lists. In order for a medication to reduce a fever, it needs to contain an analgesic. An analgesic is a substance that relieves pain and/or inflammation. Common over-the-counter analgesics include acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.

Save your stomach. Acetaminophen or enterically coated (“gentle”) aspirin are better options for people prone to the stomach irritation associated with aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Keep in mind that acetaminophen may not be right for people with liver disease or abnormal liver function. If in doubt, ask your doctor.

Ask about age. Some analgesics are not safe for children and teens. Aspirin in particular should not be used in kids or teens because it can lead to a rare, life-threatening reaction called Reye’s (pronounced “rise”) syndrome. Acetaminophen often is a safer option for bringing mild fever down in kids.