Fever (increased body temperature) is mostly a symptom and sign of an infection. It can be also present in rheumatic diseases, connective tissue disorders, hematological disorders and certain tumors. This means that treating the primary disorder and not the fever by itself should be the primary concern. By treating the primary disorder, the fever will disappear spontaneously.

Antipyretics should be given only if the fever becomes excessive (above 39oC) or is associated with additional symptoms like muscle pains, headache, vomiting, muscle weakness, tiredness, nausea, etc.

In the case of an infection, a fever has a useful role in the body’s fight against the infection. That’s why you don’t need to normalize the body temperature but only to decrease the temperature to a level where the increased body temperature will be bearable and useful at the same time. Decreasing the fever for 1-1.5oC, 1-2 hours after taking any antipyretic drug would be acceptable.

Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are used for reducing the fever. Most of the NSAIDs not only reduce the fever (antipyretic) but also reduce the pain (painkiller) and inflammation (anti-inflammatory).

Panadol (paracetamol) doesn’t have anti-inflammatory properties but is one of the most used antipyretics and painkillers. It can also be used by pregnant women and small kids. Paracetamol can be used orally (as a tablet or syrup), rectally (in babies and small kids) and parenterally (intramuscular and intravenous). The method of administration depends upon the occasions.

You should consult your primary health provider if the fever continues more than several days.