Oral and Rectal Acetaminophen Equally Effective for Fever Reduction

Fever reduction is difficult in children who are vomiting or refusing oral medication. Rectal administration of acetaminophen (15 mg/kg) is an alternative in such cases. . . .

Fever reduction is difficult in children who are vomiting or refusing oral medication. Rectal administration of acetaminophen (15 mg/kg) is an alternative in such cases. High-dose (30-mg/kg) rectal acetaminophen has been investigated but has not been used in practice. These investigators conducted a randomized, controlled trial to compare the defervescent effects of 15-mg/kg rectal, 30-mg/kg rectal, and 15-mg/kg oral acetaminophen.

Children aged 6 months to 6 years who presented to a children's hospital emergency department with a temperature of at least 39°C, had no relevant comorbidities, were able to take oral medication, and had not taken antipyretics in the previous 4 hours were enrolled. Of 89 patients, 70 completed the study and had s…

Reviewing Author

Jill M. Baren, MD, FACEP