What medicine should children take for headache caused by a cold?
Jul 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Children with colds and headaches may take medications such as acetaminophen suspension drops, ibuprofen suspension, pediatric acetaminophen and chlorpheniramine maleate granules, pediatric cold granules, or compound zinc ibuprofen granules, as directed by a physician. Medication use in children must be cautious. If headache symptoms persist or worsen, or are accompanied by high fever, vomiting, or lethargy, prompt medical attention is recommended to establish a clear diagnosis and ensure appropriate medication use under a physician's guidance.
Generally, for children's cold-related headaches, medications such as acetaminophen suspension drops, ibuprofen suspension, pediatric acetaminophen chlorpheniramine maleate granules, pediatric cold granules, and compound zinc ibuprofen granules may be used according to medical advice. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Acetaminophen Suspension Drops
The main ingredient is acetaminophen, which exerts antipyretic and analgesic effects by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system. It effectively relieves headache and fever caused by colds and causes less gastrointestinal irritation. Avoid combining with other medications containing acetaminophen. Monitor body temperature closely during treatment.
2. Ibuprofen Suspension
Primarily contains ibuprofen, which inhibits cyclooxygenase activity, reduces prostaglandin synthesis, thereby alleviating inflammatory responses and pain sensations. It can relieve headache and fever caused by colds, with effects lasting 6-8 hours. To reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, it is recommended to take after meals.
3. Pediatric Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, and Artificial Cow-bezoar Granules
Composed of acetaminophen, chlorpheniramine maleate, and artificial cow-bezoar. Acetaminophen provides antipyretic and analgesic effects; chlorpheniramine maleate alleviates symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing; artificial cow-bezoar clears heat and detoxifies, comprehensively improving cold-related discomfort. Children should avoid performing high-altitude work or strenuous exercise during treatment and should not take other similar compound cold medications simultaneously.
4. Pediatric Cold Granules
Formulated with multiple traditional Chinese herbs such as pogostemon cablin, chrysanthemum, forsythia suspense, and isatis leaf, these granules have functions of relieving superficies syndrome and clearing heat toxins. They are suitable for headache, fever, cough, and sore throat caused by wind-heat type colds. Children with wind-cold type colds should not use this medication. Avoid consuming cold or greasy foods during treatment.
5. Compound Zinc Ibuprofen Granules
Contains zinc gluconate, ibuprofen, and chlorpheniramine maleate. Zinc gluconate enhances immunity, ibuprofen provides antipyretic and analgesic effects, and chlorpheniramine maleate alleviates nasal congestion and runny nose symptoms. It effectively relieves cold-related headaches and other associated symptoms. Contraindicated for individuals allergic to ibuprofen. Overdosing on zinc supplements may cause adverse reactions such as nausea and vomiting; strictly follow the prescribed dosage.
Medication use in children should be cautious. If headache symptoms persist or worsen, or are accompanied by high fever, vomiting, lethargy, or other conditions, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention for a definitive diagnosis and appropriate medication use under a doctor's guidance.
