Active Ingredient
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) 120 mg per 5 ml
What Panadol Syrup Is Used For
Panadol Syrup is a sugar-free, strawberry-flavored oral suspension formulated for children aged 2 months to 12 years for the temporary relief of:
- Fever associated with common childhood illnesses, colds, and flu
- Post-immunisation fever and discomfort
- Pain and discomfort from teething
- Toothaches
- Sore throat
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Minor aches and pains
Paracetamol works by reducing fever and relieving pain. Clinical studies show that paracetamol begins to reduce fever within 15-30 minutes of administration, providing prompt relief for children experiencing discomfort.
Important Safety Information
Who Should NOT Use Panadol Syrup
Do not give this medication if your child:
- Is allergic to paracetamol (acetaminophen) or any ingredients in this product
- Is under 2 months of age (unless specifically directed by a doctor)
- Has severe liver disease or liver failure
- Is already taking other medications containing paracetamol or acetaminophen
Serious Warnings and Precautions
Liver Damage Risk: Paracetamol can cause serious liver damage if too much is given or if given too frequently. Liver damage from paracetamol overdose is one of the most common causes of acute liver failure. This risk is particularly serious in children due to their smaller body size and developing metabolism.
CRITICAL DOSING REQUIREMENTS:
- Never exceed the recommended dose for your child's age and weight
- Never give more frequently than every 4-6 hours
- Do not give more than 4 doses in 24 hours
- Always use the measuring device provided with the product - never use household spoons
- Check all other medications your child is taking to ensure they do not also contain paracetamol
- Seek immediate medical attention if you accidentally give too much
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care:
Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately if:
- You have given more than the recommended dose
- Your child shows signs of overdose (nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, confusion, sweating, stomach pain, yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Fever persists for more than 3 days or exceeds 39.5°C (103°F)
- Pain persists for more than 5 days
- New symptoms appear or symptoms worsen
- Your child appears very ill, lethargic, or difficult to wake
- You are concerned about your child's condition
Dehydration Warning: Fever and illness can lead to dehydration in children. Ensure your child continues to drink adequate fluids. Signs of dehydration include reduced urination, dry mouth, sunken eyes, no tears when crying, and unusual sleepiness or irritability.
Consult Your Doctor Before Use If Your Child Has:
- Liver disease or impaired liver function
- Kidney disease
- G6PD deficiency (a genetic enzyme deficiency)
- Chronic malnutrition or dehydration
- Weighs significantly less than average for their age
- Is taking any other medications, including prescription or over-the-counter products
Common Side Effects
Paracetamol is generally well-tolerated when used as directed. However, some children may experience:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, swelling)
- Mild digestive upset
- Rarely, blood disorders
Serious allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop use and seek emergency care if your child develops difficulty breathing, severe rash, facial swelling, or unusual bruising or bleeding.
How to Give Panadol Syrup
DOSING BY AGE AND WEIGHT:
The correct dose depends on your child's weight and age. Dosing by weight is more accurate than dosing by age. Always consult the dosing chart on the product packaging or ask your pharmacist or doctor for guidance.
General Dosing Guidelines (consult packaging for complete dosing table):
- 2-3 months (4-6 kg): Consult doctor for appropriate dose
- 3-6 months (6-8 kg): 2.5 ml (60 mg)
- 6-12 months (8-10 kg): 5 ml (120 mg)
- 1-2 years (10-12 kg): 5-7.5 ml (120-180 mg)
- 2-4 years (12-16 kg): 7.5-10 ml (180-240 mg)
- 4-6 years (16-20 kg): 10-12.5 ml (240-300 mg)
- 6-8 years (20-26 kg): 12.5-15 ml (300-360 mg)
- 8-10 years (26-32 kg): 15-20 ml (360-480 mg)
- 10-12 years (32-43 kg): 20-25 ml (480-600 mg)
Administration Instructions:
- Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medication is evenly mixed
- Use only the calibrated measuring cup or oral syringe provided with the product - do not use kitchen spoons or other measuring devices as this can lead to incorrect dosing
- Pour or draw the correct dose carefully, checking at eye level
- Give the medicine directly into your child's mouth
- Can be given with or without food, though giving with food may help if stomach upset occurs
- If your child vomits within 30 minutes of taking the dose, you may repeat the dose once
- Rinse the measuring device with warm water after each use and allow to air dry
Timing Between Doses:
- Wait at least 4-6 hours between doses
- Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period
- If pain or fever persists beyond the recommended duration, consult your doctor rather than continuing treatment
Based on Our Pharmacists' Experience:
Parents often find it helpful to:
- Keep a written log of when doses are given, especially when multiple caregivers are involved (parents, grandparents, daycare providers) to prevent accidental double-dosing
- Chill the syrup slightly if your child prefers the taste when cold (but do not freeze)
- Follow the dose immediately with a drink of water or juice if your child dislikes the flavor
- Set phone reminders to ensure appropriate spacing between doses
- Measure doses carefully under good lighting to ensure accuracy
What You Need to Know Before Starting Treatment
Not a Substitute for Medical Evaluation: While paracetamol effectively reduces fever and pain, it treats symptoms but not the underlying cause of illness. Persistent or high fever requires medical evaluation to identify and treat the underlying condition.
Fever in Young Infants: Fever in babies under 3 months is always a reason to contact your doctor immediately, as it may indicate a serious infection requiring urgent medical attention, such as meningitis or sepsis.
High Fever Guidelines: For children of any age, fever above 40°C (104°F), fever lasting more than 3 days, or fever accompanied by severe symptoms (stiff neck, severe headache, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, seizures, or extreme lethargy) requires immediate medical evaluation.
Immunisation Fever: Post-vaccination fever is common and usually mild. However, if your child develops a high fever (above 39°C/102°F) or appears unwell after vaccination, contact your healthcare provider.
Sugar-Free Formula: This syrup is sugar-free, making it suitable for children with diabetes or those whose parents prefer to avoid added sugars. However, it contains other sweeteners to improve palatability.
Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor or pharmacist if your child is taking any other medications, including:
- Other pain or fever medications
- Antibiotics (especially chloramphenicol)
- Anti-seizure medications
- Blood thinners (warfarin)
- Prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, or herbal supplements
Storage Instructions
- Store below 25°C (77°F) in a cool, dry place
- Do not refrigerate unless directed (though some children prefer the taste when chilled)
- Do not freeze
- Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
- Protect from light
- Keep out of reach and sight of children - paracetamol overdose is extremely dangerous and can be fatal
- Do not use after the expiration date printed on the package
- Once opened, check the product label for specific storage timeframe (typically use within 6 months of opening)
- Discard any unused medicine responsibly after the expiration date
Accidental Overdose Information
Paracetamol overdose in children is a medical emergency. Even if your child appears well immediately after taking too much, liver damage may develop over 24-72 hours. Prompt medical treatment can prevent serious complications or death.
If overdose is suspected:
- Call your local poison control center or emergency services immediately
- Have the medication bottle available to provide specific information about the product and amount taken
- Note the time the overdose occurred
- Do not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking help
- Do not attempt to make your child vomit unless specifically instructed by medical professionals
- Treatment with an antidote (N-acetylcysteine) is most effective when started within 8-10 hours of overdose
Symptoms of paracetamol overdose may include: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, extreme tiredness, unusual bleeding or bruising, pain in the upper right abdomen, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. These symptoms may not appear immediately.
Manufacturer Information
[Manufacturer name and details would be inserted here based on your specific product]
Regulatory Status: This medication is available over-the-counter for children aged 2 months to 12 years. Always read the label and follow directions for use. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.
Medical Review Notice: This product information should be reviewed by a licensed pharmacist or physician to ensure clinical accuracy and compliance with current pediatric dosing guidelines. Parents and caregivers should consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized medical advice, particularly for infants under 6 months of age or children with underlying health conditions.
Last Updated: [2.April.2026]