Fever is a protective reaction of the body. Suppressing fever reduces the intensity of the immune response, so we lower the temperature only if the child is feeling unwell. Focus on the child's well-being, not the numbers.
There are 2 safe medications for children:
Ibuprofen, used at a dose of 10 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), and Paracetamol at 12.5-15 mg/kg per dose. Calculate based on the child's weight. Ibuprofen can be taken every 6-8 hours (no more than 3 times a day), and Paracetamol every 6 hours (no more than 4 times a day). Taking these medications simultaneously increases the risk of side effects.
Important! Do not expect the temperature to drop to 36.6 degrees: if it falls by 0.5 degrees and the child feels better, that's normal. It's also worth noting that the effect of antipyretics develops in 40 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Physical methods to reduce temperature include undressing the child, rinsing with room-temperature water, drinking cool water, and applying a cold towel to the forehead and armpits. Other medications are contraindicated in children and may cause severe adverse reactions.