Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Paracetamol - 24 pack

Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Paracetamol - 24 pack

  • 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 children's fever and mild to moderate pain effectively
  • ✔️ Dissolves on the tongue — no water needed
  • ✔️ Each tablet contains 250 mg paracetamol for accurate dosing
  • ✔️ Suitable for children aged 6 to 12 years
  • ✔️ Sugar-free orange flavour children find easy to accept

Price Checker

Regular price £8.99
Sale price £8.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Paracetamol?

 

When your child is struggling with a headache, sore throat, or a temperature that just won't budge, you want something that works quickly — and that they'll actually take. Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts paracetamol are orange-flavoured dissolving tablets designed specifically for children aged 6 and over. Each tablet contains 250 mg of paracetamol and melts on the tongue without the need for water, making them a genuinely practical option for school-age children who find swallowing tablets difficult. You can browse our full range of baby and toddler medicines if you're looking for options for younger children too.

Paracetamol is one of the most widely used and well-studied analgesics and antipyretics available in the UK. The NHS recommends it as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate pain and fever in children. This 24-pack gives you a reliable supply at home, so you're not caught short when illness strikes.

 

How Do Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Work to Relieve Pain and Fever?

 

Paracetamol's exact mechanism isn't fully understood, but the current evidence points to its action in the central nervous system. Here's what happens when your child takes a Fastmelt tablet:

  • The tablet dissolves rapidly on the tongue, allowing paracetamol to be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream.
  • Paracetamol inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins — chemical messengers that signal pain and raise body temperature — primarily within the brain and spinal cord.
  • This reduces the perception of pain and helps bring a raised temperature back down towards normal.
  • Onset of action typically occurs within 30 to 60 minutes of administration.

Unlike ibuprofen, paracetamol does not have significant anti-inflammatory properties, but it is generally better tolerated in children with stomach sensitivities or asthma where NSAIDs may be unsuitable.

 

Who Should Use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

 

These tablets are intended for children aged 6 to 12 years. They're particularly useful when a child refuses liquid medicines or is at school and needs a discreet, easy-to-take option. They're suitable for relieving:

  • Mild to moderate pain, including headaches, toothache, and sore throats
  • Fever associated with colds, flu, and childhood infections
  • Post-vaccination discomfort
  • Aches and pains from minor injuries

They are not suitable for children under 6 years of age, or for children with phenylketonuria (PKU), as the tablets contain aspartame. Always check with your pharmacist if your child has a known liver or kidney condition before use.

 

How Do Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Compare to Calpol SixPlus Suspension?

 

Feature Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Calpol SixPlus Suspension
Form Dissolving tablet Oral liquid
Water needed? No No
Suitable age 6–12 years 6–12 years (SixPlus range)
Paracetamol per dose (age 6–9) 500 mg (2 tablets) 500 mg (10 ml)
Portability Very portable — no measuring required Requires measuring spoon or syringe

 

How Should You Store Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Paracetamol?

 

Store the tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of sight and reach of children at all times — even though they're designed for children, accidental overdose with paracetamol is a medical emergency. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

If you're building a home medicine cabinet, our first aid collection has everything you need alongside children's pain relief essentials.

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 SixPlus Fastmelts Paracetamol 24 Pack specifications
Treatment category Children's pain relief and fever management
Active ingredient Paracetamol 250 mg per tablet
Mechanism of action Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system
Suitable for Children aged 6 to 12 years
Pack size 24 tablets
Strengths 250 mg paracetamol per tablet
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Analgesic / Antipyretic
Preparation Oral dissolving tablet (Fastmelt)
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Paracetamol 24 Pack

 

What Is Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts and What Is It Used For?

 

Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts are orange-flavoured, dissolving oral tablets containing 250 mg of paracetamol each. They are used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever in children aged 6 to 12 years. Common conditions they're used for include headaches, toothache, sore throats, earache, and the aches and fever associated with colds and flu. The NHS recommends paracetamol as a first-line option for managing children's pain and fever at home.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

 

Before giving these tablets to your child, read the following carefully. Do not use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts if any of the following apply:

  • Your child is under 6 years of age
  • Your child has phenylketonuria (PKU) — the tablets contain aspartame
  • Your child is allergic to paracetamol or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • Your child already takes another medicine containing paracetamol — this risks accidental overdose
  • Your child has severe liver or kidney disease

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if your child has a liver condition, kidney problems, or is malnourished. Use with caution in children who are underweight for their age.

Known drug interactions to be aware of include:

  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants — regular paracetamol use may enhance anticoagulant effect
  • Other paracetamol-containing products (e.g. cold and flu remedies) — risk of exceeding safe daily dose
  • 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 SixPlus Fastmelts Correctly?

 

Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or as directed by your pharmacist. The tablets dissolve on the tongue — no water is needed, which makes them ideal for use on the go. Here's how to give them:

  1. Check your child's age and weight to confirm the correct dose.
  2. Remove one tablet from the blister pack carefully.
  3. Place the tablet directly on your child's tongue.
  4. Allow the tablet to dissolve fully — do not chew or swallow whole.
  5. Wait at least 4 hours before giving the next dose.
  6. Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period.
Age Group Number of Tablets per Dose Paracetamol per Dose Maximum Doses per 24 Hours
6–9 years 2 tablets 500 mg 4
10–12 years 3 tablets 750 mg 4

If your child's symptoms persist for more than 3 days, or worsen at any point, stop use and consult your GP. For broader children's health support, our cold and flu collection includes a range of products to help manage seasonal illness in children and adults alike.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

 

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

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

  • Nausea
  • Stomach discomfort

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Flushing
  • Low blood pressure (if given intravenously — not relevant for oral use)
  • Blood disorders (very rare with oral use at recommended doses)

Serious allergic reactions to paracetamol are rare but can occur. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. If any of these occur, stop use immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

Paracetamol overdose is a medical emergency. If you suspect your child has taken too much — even if they seem well — go to A&E immediately or call 111. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

 

How Should You Store Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Safely?

 

Correct storage keeps the tablets effective and safe. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Store out of sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date on the packaging
  • Do not store in a bathroom cabinet — humidity can affect the tablets
  • Dispose of unused or expired tablets safely via your local pharmacy

If you're managing multiple medicines at home, it's worth exploring our pain relief collection to ensure you have the right products for every member of the family, stored safely and accessibly.

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 SixPlus Fastmelts paracetamol online in the UK?

You can buy Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts paracetamol directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. Simply add the 24-pack to your basket and complete your order online for home delivery. It's a convenient way to keep a reliable supply at home without a trip to the shops.

How do Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts work in the body?

The active ingredient, paracetamol, works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the central nervous system — these are the chemical messengers that trigger pain signals and raise body temperature. By reducing prostaglandin activity, paracetamol lowers fever and relieves mild to moderate pain. The dissolving tablet format means absorption begins quickly once the tablet melts on the tongue.

How do I give Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts to my child step by step?

Place the correct number of tablets directly on your child's tongue and allow them to dissolve fully — no water or chewing is needed. Always check the age-appropriate dose on the packaging before giving the tablets. Wait at least 4 hours before giving another dose, and never exceed 4 doses in 24 hours.

What is the correct dose of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts for my child's age?

Children aged 6 to 9 years should receive 2 tablets (500 mg paracetamol) per dose, while children aged 10 to 12 years should receive 3 tablets (750 mg paracetamol) per dose. No more than 4 doses should be given in any 24-hour period. Always follow the instructions on the pack or as directed by your pharmacist.

What is the best time to give Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts to my child?

Give the tablets as soon as your child's symptoms appear — there's no specific time of day that's clinically superior, but spacing doses evenly across the day (every 4 to 6 hours) helps maintain consistent pain and fever relief. If your child's temperature tends to spike at night, a dose before bedtime can help them sleep more comfortably. Always ensure at least 4 hours between doses.

What are the side effects of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts and how do I manage them?

Side effects are uncommon when the tablets are used at the correct dose. Occasionally, children may experience mild nausea or stomach discomfort. Rarely, a skin rash or allergic reaction may occur — if this happens, stop use immediately and seek medical advice. Paracetamol overdose is a medical emergency; if you suspect your child has taken too much, go to A&E straight away even if they seem well.

Who is eligible to use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

These tablets are suitable for children aged 6 to 12 years. They are not appropriate for children under 6, or for children with phenylketonuria (PKU) as they contain aspartame. Children with liver or kidney conditions should only use them under medical supervision — speak to your GP or pharmacist first if you're unsure.

Can I give Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts alongside other medicines?

You should never give Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts alongside any other medicine that contains paracetamol, as this risks exceeding the safe daily dose. They can generally be alternated with ibuprofen for children if advised by a healthcare professional, but always check with your pharmacist first. If your child takes regular prescribed medicines, seek advice before use.

What happens if my child misses a dose of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you remember — provided at least 4 hours have passed since the last dose. Never give a double dose to compensate for a missed one, as this increases the risk of exceeding the safe daily paracetamol limit. If your child's symptoms are improving, you may not need to give the missed dose at all.

What are the alternatives to Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts for children?

Alternatives include Calpol SixPlus oral suspension (liquid), generic paracetamol tablets for children aged 6 and over, or children's ibuprofen suspension for those without contraindications to NSAIDs. You can explore our pain relief collection for a full range of options. Always check age suitability and speak to a pharmacist if you're unsure which product is right for your child.

How long can my child use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts for?

For pain relief, do not use for more than 3 days without consulting a GP. For fever, do not use for more than 3 days without medical advice either. If symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to seek professional guidance rather than continuing to self-treat. Prolonged use without review is not recommended.

Are Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts suitable for children with asthma?

Paracetamol is generally considered safer than ibuprofen for children with asthma, as NSAIDs can trigger bronchospasm in some individuals. However, a small number of children with asthma may be sensitive to paracetamol too, so it's always worth checking with your GP or pharmacist before use. If your child has been prescribed specific asthma medicines, confirm there are no interactions.

Do Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts contain sugar or gluten?

Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts are sugar-free, which makes them suitable for children who need to limit sugar intake. They do contain aspartame as a sweetener, so they are not suitable for children with phenylketonuria (PKU). Always check the full ingredients list on the packaging if your child has known food sensitivities or allergies.

What should I do if my child accidentally takes too many Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

Paracetamol overdose is a medical emergency — go to A&E immediately or call 999, even if your child appears well, as symptoms of liver damage may not appear for several hours. Do not wait to see if symptoms develop. Take the packaging with you so medical staff can see exactly what was taken and how much.

What does the latest research say about paracetamol use in children?

Paracetamol remains one of the most extensively studied medicines for use in children and continues to be recommended by the NHS and NICE as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate pain and fever. Current guidance does not support routine alternating of paracetamol and ibuprofen unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. For children's general health support, our vitamins and supplements collection includes products to support immunity and wellbeing year-round.

How Should You Use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts are designed to be placed directly on your child's tongue, where they dissolve without the need for water. This makes them particularly convenient for use at school, when travelling, or whenever a measuring spoon isn't to hand. Always read the full instructions on the packaging before use, and check that you're giving the correct dose for your child's age.

What Is the Correct Dose of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

The dose depends on your child's age. Each tablet contains 250 mg of paracetamol, so the number of tablets given per dose varies. Always use the minimum effective dose for the shortest time necessary to relieve symptoms.

Do not give to children under 6 years of age. If your child's weight is low for their age, seek advice from a pharmacist before use.

When Is the Best Time to Use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

Give the tablets as soon as your child's symptoms begin — there's no single "best" time of day, but spacing doses evenly helps maintain consistent relief throughout the day. If your child's fever or pain tends to worsen overnight, a dose given before bedtime can help them sleep more comfortably. Try to keep a note of the time each dose is given so you don't accidentally give doses too close together.

The tablets can be given with or without food. If your child has a sensitive stomach, giving them after a light snack may help reduce any mild nausea.

How Long Can You Use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts For?

For pain relief, do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a GP or pharmacist. For fever, the same 3-day limit applies — if your child's temperature has not improved or continues to rise, seek medical advice promptly. Prolonged use without professional review is not recommended, as persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that requires assessment.

If your child's condition worsens at any point during treatment, stop use and contact your GP or call NHS 111 for guidance.

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

How Should You Use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts are designed to be placed directly on your child's tongue, where they dissolve without the need for water. This makes them particularly convenient for use at school, when travelling, or whenever a measuring spoon isn't to hand. Always read the full instructions on the packaging before use, and check that you're giving the correct dose for your child's age.

What Is the Correct Dose of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

The dose depends on your child's age. Each tablet contains 250 mg of paracetamol, so the number of tablets given per dose varies. Always use the minimum effective dose for the shortest time necessary to relieve symptoms.

Do not give to children under 6 years of age. If your child's weight is low for their age, seek advice from a pharmacist before use.

When Is the Best Time to Use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

Give the tablets as soon as your child's symptoms begin — there's no single "best" time of day, but spacing doses evenly helps maintain consistent relief throughout the day. If your child's fever or pain tends to worsen overnight, a dose given before bedtime can help them sleep more comfortably. Try to keep a note of the time each dose is given so you don't accidentally give doses too close together.

The tablets can be given with or without food. If your child has a sensitive stomach, giving them after a light snack may help reduce any mild nausea.

How Long Can You Use Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts For?

For pain relief, do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a GP or pharmacist. For fever, the same 3-day limit applies — if your child's temperature has not improved or continues to rise, seek medical advice promptly. Prolonged use without professional review is not recommended, as persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that requires assessment.

If your child's condition worsens at any point during treatment, stop use and contact your GP or call NHS 111 for guidance.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

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. Most children experience no side effects at all. However, as with any medicine, some children may notice mild reactions.

  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Mild stomach discomfort or abdominal pain

These effects are uncommon and usually mild. Giving the tablets after a light snack may help if your child has a sensitive stomach.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

Less commonly, some children may experience reactions that are worth monitoring. These are rare but should not be ignored if they occur.

  • Skin rash or itching (urticaria)
  • Flushing or redness of the skin
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue (angioedema — rare)
  • Dizziness

If your child develops a rash or any sign of swelling, stop use immediately and seek medical advice. These could indicate a hypersensitivity reaction to paracetamol.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts?

Serious side effects from paracetamol at recommended doses are extremely rare. The most significant risk is from overdose, not from therapeutic use. Taking too much paracetamol — even accidentally — can cause severe liver damage, which may not become apparent for 24 to 72 hours after ingestion.

Signs of paracetamol overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and later jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). If you suspect your child has taken too much, go to A&E immediately — do not wait for symptoms to develop. Take the packaging with you.

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as nausea, stop the current dose and monitor your child. If symptoms resolve, you may continue with the next dose at the correct time. For any allergic reaction — including rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty — stop use immediately and seek urgent medical attention by calling 999 or going to A&E.

You can also report suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. The most important interaction to be aware of is with other medicines containing paracetamol. Many cold and flu remedies, combination analgesics, and cough medicines contain paracetamol — giving these alongside Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts can easily lead to exceeding the safe daily dose. Always check the ingredients of any other medicine your child is taking.

Other notable interactions include:

  • 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

If your child takes any regular prescribed medicines, always check with your pharmacist before giving Calpol SixPlus Fastmelts.

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