Calpol

Calpol Syrup is commonly used for the relief of:

• Fever associated with colds, influenza and other common infections.
• Fever following routine childhood vaccinations (when recommended).
• Teething pain.
• Toothache.
• Earache.
• Sore throat.
• Headache.
• Mild to moderate muscle aches and body pain.
• Minor aches and pains associated with childhood illnesses.
• Pain after minor medical or dental procedures. 

To ensure the best results, Calpol Syrup should always be given exactly as directed on the product label or as advised by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose should be based on the child's age or body weight, depending on the specific product instructions.

Before each use, shake the bottle well to ensure the medicine is evenly mixed. Measure every dose carefully using the oral syringe or measuring spoon supplied with the medicine. Household teaspoons should not be used, as they may not provide an accurate dose.

Calpol Syrup can be taken with or without food. If it causes mild stomach upset, giving it after food may help.

While using Calpol Syrup:

• Shake the bottle well before every dose.
• Measure each dose accurately using the supplied measuring device.
• Leave at least 4 hours between doses.
• Do not give more than 4 doses in 24 hours.
• Do not give Calpol together with another medicine that contains paracetamol.
• Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids, particularly if they have a fever.

If symptoms continue despite treatment or your child becomes more unwell, seek medical advice.

Allergy

Do not give Calpol Syrup to anyone who is allergic to paracetamol or any of the other ingredients in the medicine. Stop using the syrup and seek immediate medical attention if signs of an allergic reaction develop, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, severe itching, hives or a widespread skin rash.

Pregnancy

Calpol Syrup contains paracetamol, which is generally considered the preferred pain reliever and fever reducer during pregnancy when treatment is necessary. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. Pregnant women should consult their doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine, especially if symptoms persist or repeated doses are required.

Breastfeeding

Paracetamol passes into breast milk in very small amounts and is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. No harmful effects have been reported in breastfed infants when the medicine is used at the recommended dose. Always use the lowest effective dose and seek medical advice if you have any concerns.

Kidney Disease

People with severe kidney disease should use Calpol Syrup only under medical supervision, as dose adjustments or longer intervals between doses may be required. Those with mild to moderate kidney impairment should consult their healthcare professional before prolonged use.

Liver Disease

Use Calpol Syrup with extra caution if you have liver disease or a history of liver problems. Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious liver damage. People with severe liver impairment or chronic alcohol-related liver disease should only use paracetamol under medical advice.

Heart Disease

Calpol Syrup is generally considered safe for people with heart disease when used at the recommended dose. However, individuals with serious underlying medical conditions should consult their healthcare professional before prolonged or frequent use.

Diabetes

Most sugar-free formulations of Calpol Syrup are suitable for people with diabetes. However, some products may contain sugars or sweeteners, so always check the product label or ask your pharmacist if you are unsure. Diabetes does not usually require a change in the recommended dose of paracetamol.

High Blood Pressure

Calpol Syrup is not known to increase blood pressure and is generally considered suitable for people with hypertension when taken at the recommended dose.

Asthma

Most people with asthma can use Calpol Syrup safely. However, a small number of individuals who are sensitive to paracetamol may experience worsening asthma symptoms. If breathing becomes difficult after taking the medicine, stop using it and seek medical attention immediately.

Elderly

Older adults can usually take Calpol Syrup safely when the recommended dose is followed. However, elderly patients with liver disease, kidney disease or poor nutritional status may require medical supervision before prolonged use.

Children

Calpol Syrup should always be given according to the child's age, body weight and the product instructions.

• Do not exceed the recommended dose.
• Leave at least 4 hours between doses.
• Do not give more than 4 doses in 24 hours.
• Babies under 3 months of age with a fever should be assessed by a healthcare professional immediately.

Alcohol

Adults should avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking paracetamol, as alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage, particularly when high doses are taken or treatment is prolonged.

Smoking

Smoking is not known to affect the effectiveness of Calpol Syrup. However, stopping smoking is recommended to improve overall health and reduce the risk of many long-term illnesses.

Existing Medical Conditions

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Calpol Syrup if you or your child:

• Have liver disease or reduced liver function.
• Have kidney disease.
• Are underweight or malnourished.
• Regularly consume large amounts of alcohol (adults).
• Have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
• Have inherited liver disorders, including Gilbert's syndrome.
• Are you taking other medicines that contain paracetamol?
• Need to use Calpol regularly for more than a few days.

Important: Calpol Syrup is intended for the short-term relief of pain and fever. If symptoms last for more than 3 days, become worse, or are accompanied by difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, seizures, severe rash or unusual drowsiness, seek medical advice promptly. Never exceed the recommended dose, as a paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage, even if there are no immediate symptoms.

Calpol Syrup is generally well tolerated when taken at the recommended dose. Most children and adults experience no side effects, and when side effects do occur, they are usually mild and temporary.

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Mild stomach discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Skin rash
• Itching
• Mild redness of the skin
• Feeling tired or unwell
• Temporary increase in liver enzyme levels (usually detected only on blood tests)

These side effects are uncommon and often resolve without treatment. If they persist or become troublesome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Store Calpol Syrup according to the instructions on the product packaging to maintain its quality and effectiveness.

• Store at room temperature, preferably below 25°C.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Store in the original packaging to protect the medicine from light.
• Do not freeze the syrup.
• Keep away from excessive heat, direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.
• Do not use the medicine after the expiry date printed on the label or carton.
• Dispose of unused or expired medicine safely. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines you no longer require.

Important: Always replace the bottle cap securely after each use and use the supplied measuring syringe or spoon to ensure accurate dosing.