Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Calpol Infant Suspension - Sugar Free - 200ml

Calpol Infant Suspension - Sugar Free - 200ml

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Relieves fever in infants from just 2 months old
  • ✔️ Sugar-free formula — kinder on developing teeth
  • ✔️ Contains paracetamol 120mg/5ml for accurate infant dosing
  • ✔️ Effective for teething pain, earache, and post-immunisation fever
  • ✔️ 200ml bottle provides multiple doses for ongoing symptom management

Price Checker

Regular price £6.99
Sale price £6.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

 

When your little one is running a temperature or clearly uncomfortable, you want something you can trust. Calpol infant suspension sugar free is one of the most widely recognised children's medicines in the UK — and for good reason. It contains paracetamol 120mg per 5ml as its active ingredient, formulated specifically for infants and young children from 2 months of age. The sugar-free formula makes it a sensible choice for parents who want to avoid unnecessary sugar in their child's diet, particularly during repeated dosing. You can find it alongside other trusted products in our baby and toddler range.

This 200ml bottle provides a generous supply for households where fever and teething discomfort are a regular occurrence. It is available over the counter without a prescription, making it easy to access when you need it most. The NHS recommends paracetamol as a first-line option for managing fever and mild to moderate pain in children, provided it is used correctly and at the right dose for your child's age and weight.

 

How Does Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free Work?

 

Paracetamol — the active ingredient in this suspension — works through a well-established mechanism. It reduces fever by acting on the temperature-regulating centre in the brain (the hypothalamus), and it relieves pain by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, the chemical messengers that sensitise nerve endings to pain signals.

  • Paracetamol is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration
  • It reaches peak plasma concentration within 30–60 minutes in most children
  • It acts centrally to lower elevated body temperature
  • It reduces the perception of mild to moderate pain without causing sedation

Because it works relatively quickly — often within 30 minutes — parents typically notice an improvement in their child's comfort and temperature within the hour. It does not treat the underlying cause of a fever or infection, but it does help manage the symptoms while your child's immune system does its work.

 

Who Should Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

 

This suspension is designed for infants and young children. It is not suitable for adults or older children who require a higher-strength formulation. It is particularly useful in the following situations:

  • Infants aged 2 months and over with a fever
  • Children experiencing mild to moderate pain from teething, earache, or sore throat
  • Infants aged 2–3 months who have developed a fever following routine immunisations
  • Children whose parents prefer a sugar-free medicine to reduce dental health risks

It is not suitable for children under 2 months of age under any circumstances. Always check the weight and age guidance on the packaging before administering.

 

How Does Calpol Infant Suspension Compare to Calpol Six Plus?

 

Feature Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free Calpol Six Plus Suspension
Active ingredient Paracetamol 120mg/5ml Paracetamol 250mg/5ml
Suitable age 2 months to 6 years 6 years to 12 years
Sugar free Yes Yes (sugar-free variant available)
Pack size 200ml 200ml

 

Is Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free Safe to Store at Home?

 

Yes — provided you follow the storage instructions carefully. Store the bottle below 25°C and do not refrigerate it, as cold temperatures can affect the consistency of the suspension. Always keep it out of the sight and reach of children, ideally in a locked medicine cabinet. Once opened, the suspension should be used within the period stated on the label — typically 28 days. If you are managing your child's health across multiple symptoms, you may also find our cold and flu range helpful for complementary products.

Do not use this product beyond its expiry date, and never share it between children without checking the appropriate dose for each child's age and weight separately. Calpol infant suspension sugar free should always be measured using the oral syringe provided — never a household spoon, which can lead to inaccurate dosing.

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 Free 200ml specifications
Treatment category Fever and mild to moderate pain relief
Mechanism of action Prostaglandin synthesis inhibition; central antipyretic action
Effective for Fever, teething pain, post-immunisation fever, earache, sore throat
Suitable for Infants and children aged 2 months to 6 years
Active ingredient Paracetamol 120mg per 5ml
Pack size 200ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Analgesic / Antipyretic
Preparation Oral suspension
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free 200ml

 

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

 

Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free is an oral paracetamol-based liquid medicine containing 120mg of paracetamol per 5ml. It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever (high temperature) in infants and young children aged 2 months to 6 years. Common reasons parents reach for it include teething discomfort, earache, sore throat, headache, and fever following childhood immunisations. The NHS advises that paracetamol is appropriate for managing fever in children when used at the correct dose, and that it should not be given alongside other paracetamol-containing products.

 

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

 

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
  • Has a known allergy to paracetamol or any other ingredient in the suspension
  • Is already taking another medicine containing paracetamol
  • Has severe liver or kidney disease

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if your child:

  • Has liver or kidney problems
  • Is underweight or malnourished
  • Has been diagnosed with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
  • Is taking any other regular medicines

Known drug interactions to be aware of:

  • Warfarin — regular use of paracetamol may enhance the anticoagulant effect
  • Other paracetamol-containing products — concurrent use risks overdose
  • Metoclopramide or 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 Sugar Free?

 

Always use the oral syringe included in the pack to measure the dose accurately. Never use a kitchen spoon. Shake the bottle well before each use. You can give the suspension directly into your child's mouth or mix it with a small amount of cool, previously boiled water if preferred.

  1. Shake the bottle gently before opening
  2. Remove the child-resistant cap
  3. Insert the oral syringe into the bottle neck
  4. Draw up the correct dose for your child's age and weight
  5. Administer slowly into the side of your child's mouth
  6. Replace the cap securely after use
  7. Rinse the syringe with clean water and allow to dry
Age Group Weight Dose Frequency
2–3 months (post-immunisation fever only) 4kg+ 2.5ml (max 2 doses) Once, then once more after 4–6 hours if needed
3–6 months 5–7kg 2.5ml Every 4–6 hours (max 4 doses in 24 hours)
6–24 months 7–12kg 5ml Every 4–6 hours (max 4 doses in 24 hours)
2–4 years 12–16kg 7.5ml Every 4–6 hours (max 4 doses in 24 hours)
4–6 years 16–21kg 10ml Every 4–6 hours (max 4 doses in 24 hours)

Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period. Leave at least 4 hours between doses. If your child's symptoms do not improve within 24 hours, or if you are at all concerned, contact your GP. For broader symptom management, our pain relief collection includes additional options suitable for older children and adults.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

 

Paracetamol is generally very well tolerated in children when used at the correct dose. Side effects are uncommon, but it is important to know what to look out for.

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

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Redness of the skin

Less common or rare side effects:

  • Allergic reactions including swelling of the face, lips, or throat (angioedema)
  • Serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (very rare)
  • Blood disorders including thrombocytopaenia (very rare, with prolonged use)
  • Liver damage — only in cases of overdose, not at therapeutic doses

If your child develops a rash, difficulty breathing, or any sign of a serious allergic reaction, stop the medicine immediately and seek emergency medical attention. Never exceed the recommended dose — paracetamol overdose in children is a medical emergency.

 

How Should You Store Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the medicine's effectiveness and safety. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C — do not refrigerate
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Store out of the sight and reach of children, ideally in a locked cabinet
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label
  • Once opened, use within 28 days
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacist

If you are building a home medicine cabinet for your family, our first aid collection has a range of essentials worth keeping to hand alongside this suspension.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

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 Free online in the UK?

You can buy Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free 200ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, with fast delivery to your door. It is available without a prescription as a General Sale List medicine. No consultation is required — simply add it to your basket and check out.

How does Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free work in the body?

It contains paracetamol 120mg per 5ml, which works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the brain and peripheral tissues, reducing both fever and the sensation of pain. It acts on the hypothalamus to lower elevated body temperature. Most children experience noticeable relief within 30 to 60 minutes of taking the correct dose.

What age can I start giving Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free can be given from 2 months of age. For babies aged 2 to 3 months, it should only be used to treat post-immunisation fever, and no more than two doses should be given. Always consult your GP or pharmacist if your baby is under 3 months and unwell for any other reason.

What is the correct dose of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free for my child?

The dose is based on your child's age and weight. For example, children aged 6 to 24 months typically receive 5ml, while children aged 4 to 6 years may receive up to 10ml. No more than 4 doses should be given in any 24-hour period, with at least 4 hours between each dose. Always refer to the dosage table on the packaging or ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Can I give Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free to a newborn baby?

No — this medicine must not be given to babies under 2 months of age. If your newborn has a fever or appears to be in pain, contact your GP or call NHS 111 immediately, as this always requires medical assessment. Do not attempt to treat a newborn's fever at home without professional guidance.

How do I measure the dose of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free accurately?

Always use the oral syringe included in the pack — never a household teaspoon, which can be inaccurate and lead to under- or over-dosing. Draw the suspension up to the correct graduation mark on the syringe, then administer it slowly into the side of your child's mouth. Rinse the syringe with clean water after each use and allow it to dry before storing.

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

Side effects are uncommon when the medicine is used as directed. The most frequently reported include skin rash or redness. Rarely, allergic reactions such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty can occur — if this happens, stop the medicine and seek emergency help immediately. Serious side effects such as liver damage only occur in cases of overdose, not at therapeutic doses.

How do I manage side effects of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

If your child develops a mild rash, stop the medicine and speak to your pharmacist or GP before giving any further doses. For any signs of a serious allergic reaction — swelling, difficulty breathing, or collapse — call 999 immediately. Never give a further dose if you suspect your child has had a reaction, and always report adverse effects to your healthcare provider.

Can I give Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free alongside other medicines?

Do not give Calpol alongside any other product containing paracetamol, including some cold and flu remedies, as this can cause accidental overdose. If your child is taking warfarin or any other regular medication, speak to your pharmacist first. You can browse our cold and flu range to check which products are compatible.

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

Paracetamol overdose in children is a medical emergency, even if your child appears well initially. If you think your child has taken too much, go to your nearest A&E department or call 999 immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear. Early treatment is essential to prevent serious liver damage.

What happens if I miss a dose of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

If you miss a dose and your child is still uncomfortable or feverish, you can give the next dose as soon as you remember — provided at least 4 hours have passed since the last dose. Never give a double dose to make up for a missed one. If your child's symptoms are improving, you may not need to give the missed dose at all.

How long can I use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free for?

This medicine should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. If your child's fever or pain persists beyond this period, or if symptoms worsen at any point, seek medical advice promptly. Prolonged use without review is not recommended.

Is Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free suitable for children with diabetes?

Yes — the sugar-free formulation means it does not contain sucrose, making it a more suitable option for children who need to avoid sugar, including those with diabetes or at risk of tooth decay. However, always check the full ingredients list and consult your child's GP or diabetes care team if you have any concerns. You may also find our baby and toddler collection helpful for other suitable products.

What are the alternatives to Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

Alternatives include other paracetamol-based suspensions such as Medinol or own-brand paracetamol oral suspension 120mg/5ml, which contain the same active ingredient at the same strength. Ibuprofen suspension (e.g. Nurofen for Children) is another option for children over 3 months who weigh at least 5kg, and can be alternated with paracetamol under pharmacist guidance. Always check age and weight suitability before switching products.

What does the latest guidance say about using paracetamol for children's fever?

Current NHS guidance states that paracetamol can be used to relieve discomfort and reduce fever in children, but that treating a fever is not always necessary if the child is otherwise well. The focus should be on keeping the child comfortable, ensuring adequate fluid intake, and monitoring for signs of serious illness. Paracetamol should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed.

How Should You Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

Always shake the bottle well before measuring each dose. Use only the oral syringe provided in the pack — a household teaspoon is not accurate enough and can result in your child receiving too little or too much medicine. Administer the suspension slowly into the side of your child's mouth, not directly to the back of the throat, to reduce the risk of choking.

Follow these steps each time you give a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

The dose is determined by your child's age and weight. Never exceed 4 doses in any 24-hour period, and always leave at least 4 hours between doses. If you are unsure which dose applies to your child, speak to your pharmacist before administering.

When Is the Best Time to Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

Give the suspension when your child is clearly uncomfortable, distressed by pain, or has a confirmed raised temperature. It can be given with or without food, though giving it after a small feed may help reduce the chance of stomach upset in younger infants. If your child wakes in the night with a fever, it is appropriate to give a dose provided the minimum 4-hour interval since the last dose has passed.

Try not to give it purely as a precaution before symptoms appear — use it in response to actual discomfort or a measured fever. This helps avoid unnecessary exposure and makes it easier to track how many doses your child has received in 24 hours.

How Long Can You Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free For?

Do not use this medicine for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. If your child's fever or pain has not improved within this time, or if symptoms worsen at any point, contact your GP or call NHS 111. Prolonged use without medical review is not appropriate, as persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that requires assessment.

Once your child has recovered, there is no need to continue giving the medicine. Store the bottle correctly for future use, and check the expiry date and the 28-day opened-on date before using it again.

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

How Should You Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

Always shake the bottle well before measuring each dose. Use only the oral syringe provided in the pack — a household teaspoon is not accurate enough and can result in your child receiving too little or too much medicine. Administer the suspension slowly into the side of your child's mouth, not directly to the back of the throat, to reduce the risk of choking.

Follow these steps each time you give a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

The dose is determined by your child's age and weight. Never exceed 4 doses in any 24-hour period, and always leave at least 4 hours between doses. If you are unsure which dose applies to your child, speak to your pharmacist before administering.

When Is the Best Time to Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

Give the suspension when your child is clearly uncomfortable, distressed by pain, or has a confirmed raised temperature. It can be given with or without food, though giving it after a small feed may help reduce the chance of stomach upset in younger infants. If your child wakes in the night with a fever, it is appropriate to give a dose provided the minimum 4-hour interval since the last dose has passed.

Try not to give it purely as a precaution before symptoms appear — use it in response to actual discomfort or a measured fever. This helps avoid unnecessary exposure and makes it easier to track how many doses your child has received in 24 hours.

How Long Can You Use Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free For?

Do not use this medicine for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. If your child's fever or pain has not improved within this time, or if symptoms worsen at any point, contact your GP or call NHS 111. Prolonged use without medical review is not appropriate, as persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that requires assessment.

Once your child has recovered, there is no need to continue giving the medicine. Store the bottle correctly for future use, and check the expiry date and the 28-day opened-on date before using it again.

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

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

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. That said, it is important to know what to watch for after giving any medicine to your child.

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Redness of the skin
  • Mild stomach discomfort

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

Less common reactions are infrequent but worth being aware of. If your child develops any of the following, stop the medicine and seek medical advice before giving any further doses.

  • Urticaria (hives) — raised, itchy welts on the skin
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension) — very rare, associated with intravenous use rather than oral, but noted in sensitive individuals
  • Changes in blood counts — only with prolonged or excessive use

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free?

Serious side effects are very rare when the medicine is used correctly. However, they can occur and require immediate action. The most significant risk is paracetamol overdose, which can cause severe liver damage even if your child appears well in the hours following ingestion. Never give more than the recommended dose, and never give it alongside other paracetamol-containing products.

  • Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; collapse
  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome — a rare but serious skin reaction causing blistering and peeling
  • Acute liver failure — only in overdose situations
  • Thrombocytopaenia (low platelet count) — extremely rare, associated with prolonged use

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

If you notice a mild rash or skin reaction, stop giving the medicine and contact your pharmacist or GP for advice. Do not give another dose until you have spoken to a healthcare professional. For any sign of a serious allergic reaction — including swelling, breathing difficulty, or loss of consciousness — call 999 immediately and do not give any further doses.

If you suspect your child has taken too much paracetamol — even if they seem fine — go to your nearest A&E department straight away or call 999. Do not wait for symptoms to develop, as liver damage from overdose can be prevented with prompt treatment but may be irreversible if left untreated.

Can Calpol Infant Suspension Sugar Free Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. The most important interaction to be aware of is with other paracetamol-containing products. Many children's cold and flu remedies, cough medicines, and combination products contain paracetamol — always check the ingredients before giving anything alongside Calpol. Giving two paracetamol-containing products at the same time can easily lead to accidental overdose.

  • Warfarin — regular paracetamol use may increase anticoagulant effect; seek medical advice
  • Metoclopramide or domperidone — may speed up paracetamol absorption
  • Cholestyramine — may reduce paracetamol absorption if taken within one hour
  • Other paracetamol-containing medicines — concurrent use risks overdose

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

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery