Prophylactic Acetaminophen Blunts Immunogenicity of Childhood Vaccinations

Routine prophylactic use of acetaminophen at the time of childhood immunizations should be reconsidered.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) often is prescribed for children for fever and pain associated with vaccinations. In a randomized, controlled, industry-sponsored study, investigators examined the effect of three doses of prophylactic paracetamol (total daily dose, 40–50 mg/kg) on fever reactions and immune responses in 459 infants (age range, 9–16 weeks at enrollment) in the Czech Republic following initial or booster vaccinations with 10-valent pneumococcal Haemophilus influenzae vaccine plus diphtheria, tetanus, and inactivated polio (DTP) vaccine, and oral rotavirus vaccines.

Fever >39ºC was uncommon in the paracetamol and no-paracetamol groups (about 1% after primary and booster vaccinations). The percentages of children with fever ≥38ºC, pa…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)