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Calpol Infant Suspension - Sugar & Colour Free - 100ml

Calpol Infant Suspension - Sugar & Colour Free - 100ml

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  • ✔️ Relieves mild to moderate pain and fever in babies from 2 months
  • ✔️ Sugar and colour free — ideal for children with dietary sensitivities
  • ✔️ Contains paracetamol 120mg/5ml for accurate, age-appropriate dosing
  • ✔️ Fever relief typically begins within 15 to 30 minutes
  • ✔️ Includes oral syringe for safe, precise dose measurement

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Is Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free Right for Your Baby?

 

When your little one is running a temperature or clearly in discomfort, you want something that works — and something you can trust. Calpol infant suspension sugar free is one of the most widely recommended over-the-counter medicines for babies and young children in the UK, offering effective relief from mild to moderate pain and fever without added sugar or artificial colours. Each 5ml dose contains 120mg of paracetamol, making it appropriate for children from 2 months of age. You can find it alongside other trusted products in our baby and toddler range.

This formulation is particularly useful if your child has dietary sensitivities, or if you simply prefer to limit unnecessary additives in their medicine. It tastes pleasant enough for most babies to accept, and the included oral syringe makes accurate dosing straightforward — which matters enormously when you're dealing with a distressed infant at 2am.

 

How Does Calpol Infant Suspension Work to Relieve Pain and Fever?

 

Paracetamol — the active ingredient in this suspension — works centrally in the brain and spinal cord. It inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers involved in triggering both pain perception and the body's temperature-raising response. By reducing prostaglandin activity, paracetamol lowers fever and eases discomfort without the anti-inflammatory action associated with ibuprofen.

  • Paracetamol is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration
  • It reaches peak plasma concentration within 30–60 minutes in most children
  • Fever reduction and pain relief typically begin within 15–30 minutes of the correct dose
  • It is metabolised primarily in the liver and excreted via the kidneys

 

Who Should Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free?

 

This suspension is designed for babies and children aged 2 months and over. It's particularly well-suited to situations where a child needs reliable, fast-acting relief from common childhood complaints. That said, it's not appropriate for every child — always check the label and, if in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

  • Babies aged 2 months and over experiencing fever (including post-vaccination fever)
  • Children with mild to moderate pain from teething, earache, sore throat, or headache
  • Children who need to avoid sugar due to dietary requirements or dental concerns
  • Children with sensitivities to artificial colours or flavourings

 

How Does Calpol Sugar Free Compare to the Standard Calpol Infant Suspension?

 

Feature Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free Calpol Infant Suspension (Standard)
Active ingredient Paracetamol 120mg/5ml Paracetamol 120mg/5ml
Contains sugar No Yes (sucrose)
Contains artificial colours No Yes
Suitable age From 2 months From 2 months
Suitable for diabetic children More appropriate Less appropriate

 

How Should You Store Calpol Infant Suspension and Is It Clinically Suitable for All Babies?

 

Store this suspension below 25°C. Do not refrigerate — cold temperatures can affect the consistency of the liquid and make accurate dosing harder. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children at all times. Once opened, use within the period stated on the packaging.

Clinically, Calpol infant suspension sugar free is considered safe for most babies from 2 months, but there are important exceptions. It should not be given to babies under 2 months of age. Children with known liver or kidney problems, or those already taking other paracetamol-containing medicines, should not receive this product without medical guidance. If your child was born prematurely, always seek advice from your GP or health visitor before administering any paracetamol-based medicine. For broader children's health support, our pain relief collection includes a range of age-appropriate options.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free 100ml specifications
Treatment category Children's pain relief and fever management
Active ingredient Paracetamol 120mg/5ml
Mechanism of action Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS to reduce pain and fever
Suitable for Children aged 2 months and over
Pack size 100ml
Strengths 120mg paracetamol per 5ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Analgesic / Antipyretic
Preparation Oral suspension
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free 100ml

 

What Is Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free and What Is It Used For?

 

Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free is an oral paracetamol suspension containing 120mg of paracetamol per 5ml. It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever in babies and young children aged 2 months and over. Common reasons parents reach for it include teething pain, post-vaccination fever, earache, sore throat, and the general discomfort that comes with colds and minor infections. It is a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription from pharmacies, supermarkets, and registered online pharmacies.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Calpol Infant Suspension?

 

Before giving this medicine to your child, read the following carefully. There are situations where it should not be used, and others where extra caution is needed.

Do not use if your child:

  • Is under 2 months of age
  • Is allergic to paracetamol or any other ingredient in the suspension
  • Is already taking another medicine containing paracetamol (including combination cold and flu remedies)
  • Has severe liver or kidney disease

Use with caution and seek medical advice if your child:

  • Was born prematurely
  • Has a known liver or kidney condition
  • Is malnourished or has a low body weight for their age
  • Is taking any regular prescribed medicines

Known drug interactions:

  • Warfarin — regular use of paracetamol may enhance the anticoagulant effect
  • Other paracetamol-containing products — concurrent use increases the risk of overdose
  • Metoclopramide and domperidone — may increase the rate of paracetamol absorption
  • Cholestyramine — may reduce paracetamol absorption if taken within one hour

 

How Should You Use Calpol Infant Suspension Correctly?

 

Always use the oral syringe or measuring spoon provided in the pack. Never estimate doses using a household teaspoon, as these vary in size and can lead to under- or over-dosing. Shake the bottle well before each use.

  1. Check your child's age and weight against the dosage table below
  2. Shake the bottle gently before opening
  3. Draw up the correct volume using the oral syringe provided
  4. Administer the suspension slowly into the side of your child's mouth
  5. Replace the cap securely after use
  6. Record the time of each dose to avoid accidental repeat dosing
Age Group Dose (Paracetamol 120mg/5ml) Frequency Max doses in 24 hours
2–3 months (post-vaccination fever only) 2.5ml Once; repeat once after 4–6 hours if needed 2
3–6 months 2.5ml Every 4–6 hours 4
6–24 months 5ml Every 4–6 hours 4
2–4 years 7.5ml Every 4–6 hours 4
4–6 years 10ml Every 4–6 hours 4

Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period. Leave at least 4 hours between doses. If your child's symptoms persist for more than 3 days, or worsen at any point, contact your GP. You might also find it helpful to browse our cold and flu range for additional supportive products during illness.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Calpol Infant Suspension?

 

Paracetamol is generally very well tolerated in children when used at the correct dose. Serious side effects are rare, but it's important to know what to look out for.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 children):

  • Mild skin rash
  • Nausea (uncommon at therapeutic doses)

Less common or rare side effects:

  • Allergic reactions — including urticaria (hives), facial swelling, or difficulty breathing (seek emergency help immediately)
  • Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) — very rare
  • Liver damage — only in cases of overdose; not a risk at recommended doses
  • Serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome — extremely rare

If you notice any unexpected reaction in your child after giving this medicine, stop use and contact your GP or pharmacist promptly. In the event of a suspected allergic reaction, call 999 immediately.

 

How Should You Store Calpol Infant Suspension Safely?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacist

If you're building a home medicine cabinet for your family, our first aid collection has everything you need to be prepared for common childhood ailments.

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Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free online in the UK?

You can buy Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free 100ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £3.99 with fast UK delivery. It's a General Sale List medicine, so no prescription is needed. Browse our full baby and toddler range for more children's health essentials.

How does Calpol Infant Suspension work in the body?

Calpol Infant Suspension contains paracetamol 120mg/5ml, which works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system — this reduces both the sensation of pain and the body's fever response. It does not have significant anti-inflammatory effects like ibuprofen does. Most children experience relief within 15 to 30 minutes of receiving the correct dose.

How do I give Calpol Infant Suspension to my baby step by step?

Shake the bottle well, then use the oral syringe provided to draw up the correct dose for your child's age or weight. Administer the liquid slowly into the side of your baby's mouth — never the back of the throat — to reduce the risk of choking. Replace the cap firmly after use and record the time of the dose.

What is the correct dose of Calpol for a 2-month-old baby?

For babies aged exactly 2 months (and only for post-vaccination fever), the recommended dose is 2.5ml of Calpol Infant Suspension, which can be repeated once after 4–6 hours if needed — giving a maximum of 2 doses in 24 hours. For any other reason for fever or pain in a 2-month-old, always consult your GP or health visitor first. Do not give Calpol to babies under 2 months of age under any circumstances.

How often can I give Calpol Infant Suspension to my child?

You can give Calpol Infant Suspension every 4 to 6 hours, but no more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period. Always leave at least 4 hours between doses. If your child still has a fever or pain after 3 days of use, stop and contact your GP.

What are the side effects of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

Side effects are uncommon when Calpol is used at the correct dose. A mild skin rash can occasionally occur. Rarely, some children may experience an allergic reaction — signs include hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, which require immediate emergency medical attention. Liver damage is only a risk in cases of overdose, not at recommended doses.

Who is Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free suitable for?

This formulation is suitable for babies and children aged 2 months and over who need relief from mild to moderate pain or fever. It is especially appropriate for children who need to avoid sugar — for example, those with diabetes or dental concerns — and for children with sensitivities to artificial colours. It is not suitable for babies under 2 months of age.

Can I give Calpol and ibuprofen together to my child?

Paracetamol and ibuprofen work differently and can sometimes be used together or alternated in children over 3 months, but you should always seek advice from your pharmacist or GP before doing so. Never give both at the same time without professional guidance. Ibuprofen-based suspensions are not suitable for babies under 3 months or those weighing less than 5kg.

What happens if I accidentally give my child too much Calpol?

Giving too much paracetamol can cause serious liver damage, even if your child appears well initially. If you think your child has received more than the recommended dose, go to your nearest A&E or call 999 immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear. Always keep medicines locked away and out of reach of children.

Is Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free suitable for diabetic children?

Yes, the sugar-free formulation is more appropriate for children with diabetes than the standard Calpol Infant Suspension, which contains sucrose. However, it does contain some other excipients, so it is always worth checking the full ingredients list or speaking to your child's diabetes care team if you are unsure. The active ingredient — paracetamol — does not affect blood glucose levels.

What are the alternatives to Calpol Infant Suspension?

Alternatives include own-brand paracetamol suspensions (120mg/5ml) available from most UK pharmacies, which contain the same active ingredient at a lower price. For children aged 3 months and over weighing at least 5kg, ibuprofen-based suspensions such as Nurofen for Children are another option. You can explore our pain relief collection for a broader range of options.

Can I give Calpol Infant Suspension to my child after vaccinations?

Yes. The NHS advises that paracetamol suspension can be given to babies aged 2 months and over to manage post-vaccination fever. For babies aged 2–3 months, only 2 doses of 2.5ml should be given in 24 hours for this purpose. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your health visitor if you have any concerns.

How long can I use Calpol Infant Suspension for?

Calpol Infant Suspension should not be used for more than 3 days continuously without medical advice. If your child's fever or pain persists beyond 3 days, or if symptoms worsen at any point, contact your GP. It is intended for short-term use only and is not a substitute for treating the underlying cause of your child's illness.

Does Calpol Infant Suspension interact with any other medicines?

The most important interaction to be aware of is with other paracetamol-containing medicines — using them together significantly increases the risk of paracetamol overdose. Warfarin can also be affected by regular paracetamol use, increasing its anticoagulant effect. Always tell your pharmacist about any other medicines your child is taking before giving Calpol.

What is the difference between Calpol Sugar Free and standard Calpol Infant Suspension?

Both products contain the same active ingredient — paracetamol 120mg/5ml — and are suitable from 2 months of age. The key difference is that the sugar-free, colour-free version does not contain sucrose or artificial colours, making it preferable for children with dietary restrictions or colour sensitivities. The standard version contains sucrose, which some parents prefer for palatability, though both are clinically equivalent in terms of pain and fever relief.

How Should You Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free?

Always use the oral syringe or measuring spoon provided in the pack — never a household teaspoon, as these are not accurate enough for medicine. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the suspension is evenly mixed.

What Is the Correct Dose of Calpol Infant Suspension?

Dosing is based on your child's age. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary. Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period, and always leave at least 4 hours between doses.

When Is the Best Time to Use Calpol Infant Suspension?

Give Calpol as soon as your child shows signs of fever or discomfort — there is no specific time of day that is better than another. If your child is in pain at night, it is appropriate to give a dose then, provided the minimum 4-hour gap since the last dose has passed. Keeping a note of each dose time helps you avoid accidental repeat dosing, especially during the night when tiredness can affect memory.

How Long Can You Use Calpol Infant Suspension For?

Calpol Infant Suspension is intended for short-term use only. Do not use it for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. If your child's fever or pain does not improve within 3 days, or if symptoms worsen at any point, contact your GP promptly. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended, as it may mask symptoms of a more serious underlying condition that requires treatment.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

How Should You Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar & Colour Free?

Always use the oral syringe or measuring spoon provided in the pack — never a household teaspoon, as these are not accurate enough for medicine. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the suspension is evenly mixed.

What Is the Correct Dose of Calpol Infant Suspension?

Dosing is based on your child's age. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary. Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period, and always leave at least 4 hours between doses.

When Is the Best Time to Use Calpol Infant Suspension?

Give Calpol as soon as your child shows signs of fever or discomfort — there is no specific time of day that is better than another. If your child is in pain at night, it is appropriate to give a dose then, provided the minimum 4-hour gap since the last dose has passed. Keeping a note of each dose time helps you avoid accidental repeat dosing, especially during the night when tiredness can affect memory.

How Long Can You Use Calpol Infant Suspension For?

Calpol Infant Suspension is intended for short-term use only. Do not use it for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. If your child's fever or pain does not improve within 3 days, or if symptoms worsen at any point, contact your GP promptly. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended, as it may mask symptoms of a more serious underlying condition that requires treatment.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Calpol Infant Suspension?

Paracetamol is one of the most widely used medicines for children in the UK and is generally very well tolerated when given at the correct dose. Serious side effects are rare. The most commonly reported issue is a mild skin rash, which usually resolves on its own.

  • Mild skin rash or redness
  • Nausea (uncommon at therapeutic doses)

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Calpol Infant Suspension?

Less common reactions are rare but worth knowing about. If you notice any of the following in your child after giving Calpol, stop use and contact your GP or pharmacist for advice.

  • Urticaria (hives) — raised, itchy welts on the skin
  • Stomach discomfort or vomiting
  • Thrombocytopenia (very low platelet count) — extremely rare
  • Neutropenia (low white blood cell count) — very rare

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Calpol Infant Suspension?

Serious side effects are very rare when Calpol is used correctly. However, you should be aware of the following and act quickly if they occur. Allergic reactions, though uncommon, can be life-threatening and require immediate emergency treatment.

  • Anaphylaxis — severe allergic reaction causing swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or collapse
  • Serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome — extremely rare, characterised by blistering of the skin and mucous membranes
  • Liver damage — only occurs in cases of overdose, not at recommended doses

If your child shows any signs of a serious allergic reaction, call 999 immediately. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

For mild reactions such as a skin rash, stop giving the medicine and contact your pharmacist or GP for guidance. For any sign of a serious allergic reaction — including swelling, breathing difficulty, or collapse — call 999 without delay. If you suspect your child has received too much paracetamol, go to your nearest A&E immediately, even if they appear well, as liver damage from overdose may not be immediately apparent.

Can Calpol Infant Suspension Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. The most important interaction is with other medicines containing paracetamol — including many combination cold and flu remedies. Using them together can lead to accidental paracetamol overdose. Warfarin's anticoagulant effect may be enhanced by regular paracetamol use. Medicines that speed up gastric emptying, such as metoclopramide, may increase the rate at which paracetamol is absorbed. Always tell your pharmacist about any other medicines your child is taking before giving Calpol Infant Suspension.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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