PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml Suspension

What is PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml

PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml Suspension is an oral liquid medication formulated specifically for infants and young children. Its active ingredient is Paracetamol (also known as Acetaminophen), a widely used analgesic and antipyretic. It is designed to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever in children.

• Active Ingredient: Paracetamol 120 mg per 5 ml
• Form: Suspension (liquid)
• Pack Size: 100 ml bottle
• Suitable Age: Typically used for infants and children from 2 months to 6 years old, based on weight and doctor's advice
• Uses:
  • Relieves pain such as teething pain, sore throat, or earache
  • Reduces fever associated with infections or vaccinations
• Flavour: Usually available in a pleasant taste to aid compliance (e.g., strawberry or orange)

This product is generally safe when used as directed, but professional guidance should be sought for prolonged use or if symptoms persist.

How to use PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml

To ensure the effectiveness and safety of PANADOL BABY & INFANT, it’s crucial to use it correctly, based on the child’s age and weight. Always follow the instructions on the label or those given by your healthcare provider.

• Step 1: Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure uniform suspension.
• Step 2: Use the provided dosing syringe or measuring spoon to measure the correct dose.
• Step 3: Administer the dose slowly into the child's mouth, preferably after feeding.
• Step 4: Repeat dosing as per the specified interval, if needed, but never exceed the maximum number of doses per day.

Dosing frequency:

• Can be given every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
• Do not administer more than 4 doses in 24 hours.

Important usage tips:

• Do not exceed the recommended dose.
• If vomiting occurs soon after administration, consult your doctor before re-dosing.
• Do not use for more than 3 days without medical advice.
• Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

Remember to clean the dosing device after each use and store the bottle safely away from children.

Mode of Action PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml

PANADOL BABY & INFANT, containing paracetamol, works by influencing the brain’s chemical messengers that trigger pain and fever. Although the precise mechanism isn’t entirely understood, its analgesic and antipyretic effects are well-established.

• Analgesic Effect (Pain Relief):
  • Paracetamol inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system.
  • By blocking prostaglandins, it reduces the perception of pain.
  • Acts primarily in the brain rather than at the site of injury or inflammation.
• Antipyretic Effect (Fever Reduction):
  • Fever is regulated by the hypothalamus in the brain.
  • Paracetamol resets the hypothalamic “thermostat” by reducing prostaglandins in the brain, thereby lowering body temperature.

Note: Unlike NSAIDs, paracetamol has minimal anti-inflammatory activity, making it gentle on the stomach and less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects. Its selective action in the brain explains its excellent safety profile in children.

PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml Interactions PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml

While PANADOL BABY & INFANT is generally safe for children, interactions may occur if combined with other medications. Always consult a healthcare provider before administering it alongside other treatments.

• Drug interactions to watch for:
  • Other Paracetamol-containing products: Avoid duplicate dosing, which can cause liver toxicity.
  • Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine): May reduce the effectiveness of paracetamol and increase liver toxicity risk.
  • Rifampicin and isoniazid (used for tuberculosis): May increase the risk of hepatotoxicity.
  • Chloramphenicol: May increase the levels of this antibiotic, leading to toxicity.
  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants: Prolonged use of paracetamol may enhance their effect, increasing bleeding risk.

Food and herbal interactions:

• There are minimal food interactions with paracetamol.
• Avoid alcohol-containing medications or syrups, even for children, as it can increase liver stress.

General recommendations:

• Always inform your pediatrician about all medications or supplements your child is taking.
• Check labels to avoid unintentional double dosing of paracetamol.

Dosage of PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml

The dosage of PANADOL BABY & INFANT depends on the child’s age and weight. The following is a general guideline, but always consult your doctor or pharmacist before administering any medication.

• Recommended dose: 15 mg per kg of body weight every 4 to 6 hours, as needed.
• Maximum: No more than 4 doses in 24 hours.

Typical dosing by age group:

• 2–3 months: 2.5 ml (only after vaccinations or with doctor’s advice)
• 3–6 months: 2.5 ml
• 6–24 months: 5 ml
• 2–4 years: 7.5 ml
• 4–6 years: 10 ml

Important tips:

• Do not exceed the recommended dose for age or weight.
• Use an accurate measuring device (syringe provided in pack).
• If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as possible, but do not double the next dose.

In case of overdose (e.g., repeated doses too close together), seek immediate medical attention, even if the child seems well — symptoms may be delayed but serious (e.g., liver damage).

Possible side effects of PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml

PANADOL BABY & INFANT is usually well tolerated when used at the recommended dosage. However, like any medicine, it may cause side effects in some children.

• Common (usually mild and temporary):
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Mild abdominal pain
  • Drowsiness (rare)
• Rare but serious side effects:
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of lips or face)
  • Breathing difficulties (very rare)
  • Skin reactions like redness, blistering, or peeling
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising (may indicate liver issues)

Signs of overdose (seek urgent help):

• Pale skin, sweating
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Confusion or lethargy
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)

If any of these occur, discontinue the medication and consult your doctor immediately.

PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml Contraindications PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml

PANADOL BABY & INFANT Suspension, while safe and effective for most infants and young children, should not be used in certain medical conditions or scenarios. These contraindications help avoid adverse effects or complications associated with the drug’s use.

• Hypersensitivity or Allergy to Paracetamol:
  • Do not use if your child has a known allergy to paracetamol or any of the excipients in the formulation.
  • Allergic reactions may include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), and difficulty breathing.
• Severe Liver Disease:
  • Paracetamol is metabolized in the liver, and in children with impaired liver function, its clearance may be reduced, increasing the risk of toxicity.
  • Avoid use in cases of known liver failure, hepatitis, or liver cirrhosis.
• Children with Metabolic Disorders:
  • Conditions like glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency may require special caution.
  • Consult a pediatrician before use in children with inherited metabolic issues.
• Concomitant Use with Other Paracetamol Products:
  • Never use PANADOL BABY & INFANT alongside other paracetamol-containing medications.
  • This could lead to cumulative dosing and potential liver toxicity.

Use with Caution:

• In premature or low birth weight infants—only use under medical supervision.
• In children who are dehydrated, malnourished, or have a history of gastrointestinal problems.
• In those on medications that affect liver enzymes (e.g., antiepileptics or tuberculosis medications).

Professional advice is essential before giving PANADOL to children with any underlying health conditions. When in doubt, consult a pediatrician or pharmacist.

Storage of PANADOL BABY & INFANT 120mg/5ml

Proper storage of PANADOL BABY & INFANT Suspension is crucial to maintain its safety, potency, and effectiveness throughout its shelf life. It also prevents accidental ingestion or spoilage.

• Temperature:
  • Store below 25°C (77°F).
  • Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and heat.
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze, as extreme temperatures may affect the formulation.
• Packaging:
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed with the original cap after each use.
  • Store in the original packaging to protect from light and contamination.
• Child Safety:
  • Always keep out of reach and sight of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
  • Use the child-resistant cap properly.
• Shelf Life:
  • Check the expiration date printed on the bottle and outer carton.
  • Do not use after the expiry date.
  • Once opened, most paracetamol suspensions should be used within 60 days (or as directed by the label or pharmacist).

Signs the medicine may be compromised:

• Change in color, consistency, or smell
• Crystals or sediment not dispersing after shaking

Disposal: Do not throw expired or unused medicine down the sink or toilet. Return it to a pharmacy or use a local medicine take-back program if available.