What medication should children take for cold and fever?

Generally, children's colds and fevers are caused by viral infections and are often accompanied by symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and coughing, with some cases possibly complicated by bacterial infections. Parents may administer medications according to a doctor's instructions, including paracetamol suspension drops, ibuprofen suspension, children's paracetamol chlorpheniramine maleate granules, pediatric Chai Gui antipyretic granules, and amoxicillin clavulanate potassium dry suspension. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Paracetamol Suspension Drops

This is a type of antipyretic analgesic that works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. It effectively reduces fever caused by colds and alleviates discomfort such as headache and muscle pain associated with fever. It causes minimal gastrointestinal irritation and is suitable for infants and young children.

2. Ibuprofen Suspension

It has antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing prostaglandin production by inhibiting cyclooxygenase activity. It can rapidly lower high fevers caused by colds, with a long-lasting effect, and also helps relieve symptoms such as sore throat and body aches caused by colds.

3. Children's Paracetamol Chlorpheniramine Maleate Granules

This compound preparation contains paracetamol, chlorpheniramine maleate, and artificial bezoar. Paracetamol reduces fever, chlorpheniramine maleate alleviates cold symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose, and artificial bezoar aids in clearing heat. It is suitable for comprehensive symptoms of fever, nasal congestion, and runny nose caused by colds.

4. Pediatric Chai Gui Antipyretic Granules

Composed of ingredients like Bupleurum, Cinnamon twig, and Kudzu root, these granules have the functions of inducing perspiration to relieve exterior symptoms and clearing internal heat to reduce fever. They target mild fever, headache, runny nose, and sore throat caused by colds in children, helping to alleviate discomfort by regulating the body's condition. They are suitable for use during the early stages of a cold or when there is a mild fever.

5. Amoxicillin Clavulanate Potassium Dry Suspension

This is a compound antibiotic in which amoxicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, while clavulanic acid inhibits β-lactamase, enhancing antibacterial activity against enzyme-producing bacteria. It is only suitable for use when a child's cold is complicated by bacterial infection, and should be used only after clear bacterial infection indicators are identified.

Normally, ensure the child gets plenty of rest and drinks plenty of warm water, avoiding spicy or greasy foods such as chili peppers and fried French fries to reduce physical strain. If the child's fever lasts more than three days without subsiding, shows signs of listlessness, or if symptoms worsen, seek medical attention promptly.