Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Calpol Sugar Free Infant Strawberry Suspension

Calpol Sugar Free Infant Strawberry Suspension

  • 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 mild to moderate pain in babies from 2 months
  • ✔️ Reduces fever quickly with paracetamol 120mg per 5ml
  • ✔️ Sugar-free formula protects developing baby teeth
  • ✔️ Strawberry flavour aids easy administration for infants
  • ✔️ Suitable after vaccinations to manage post-jab fever

Price Checker

Regular price £14.19
Sale price £14.19
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension?

 

When your baby is unwell, you want something you can trust. Calpol sugar free infant suspension is one of the most widely recognised paracetamol-based medicines for infants in the UK, formulated specifically for children aged 2 months and over. Each 5ml dose contains 120mg of paracetamol, providing effective relief from mild to moderate pain — including teething discomfort, post-vaccination soreness, and the aches that come with colds — as well as helping to bring down a high temperature. It's sugar free, which means it's kinder to your baby's developing teeth, and the familiar strawberry flavour makes it easier to administer.

Available without a prescription, this suspension is a staple in many family medicine cabinets. You'll find it alongside other trusted products in our baby and toddler range, making it easy to stock up on everything your little one might need in one place.

 

How Does Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension Work?

 

Paracetamol — the active ingredient in this suspension — works centrally in the brain and nervous system. It inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers responsible for triggering both pain signals and the rise in body temperature associated with fever. By reducing prostaglandin activity, paracetamol helps your baby feel more comfortable without masking serious symptoms that need medical attention.

  • Paracetamol is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration
  • It reaches peak plasma concentration within 30–60 minutes in most infants
  • It acts on the hypothalamus to lower elevated body temperature
  • It does not have significant anti-inflammatory properties at standard doses

 

Who Should Use Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension?

 

This suspension is designed for infants and young children who need short-term relief from pain or fever. It is particularly useful after routine vaccinations, during teething, or when your child has a cold or mild infection. It is not suitable for children under 2 months of age, and premature babies should only receive it if they are at least 3 months corrected gestational age and weigh over 4kg.

  • Babies aged 2 months and over (full-term)
  • Premature babies aged 3 months corrected age, weighing over 4kg
  • Children experiencing mild to moderate pain or fever
  • Children who require a sugar-free paracetamol formulation

 

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

 

Feature Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension Calpol Infant Suspension (Original)
Active ingredient Paracetamol 120mg/5ml Paracetamol 120mg/5ml
Sugar content Sugar free Contains sucrose
Suitable from 2 months 2 months
Dental suitability Preferred by dentists Less preferred due to sugar

 

How Should You Store Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension?

 

Proper storage is important to maintain the effectiveness and safety of this medicine. Store the bottle below 25°C and do not refrigerate — chilling can affect the consistency of the suspension. Always keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the sight and reach of children. Once opened, use within the period stated on the packaging.

If you're building up your home medicine kit, our pain relief collection includes a range of options for the whole family, from infant suspensions to adult analgesics. Always check the expiry date before use, and never use a medicine that has passed its expiry date or shows signs of deterioration.

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 Sugar Free Infant Strawberry Suspension specifications
Treatment category Analgesic / Antipyretic
Mechanism of action Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the CNS to reduce pain and fever
Effective for Mild to moderate pain, fever
Suitable for Children aged 2 months and over
Active ingredient Paracetamol 120mg/5ml
Pack sizes 100ml
Strengths 120mg/5ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Non-opioid analgesic
Preparation Oral suspension
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Calpol Sugar Free Infant Strawberry Suspension

 

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

 

Calpol Sugar Free Infant Strawberry Suspension is an oral paracetamol liquid medicine containing 120mg of paracetamol per 5ml. It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain in infants and young children — including teething pain, headache, sore throat, and aches associated with colds and flu — and to reduce fever (high temperature). It is licensed for use in children from 2 months of age and is available over the counter without a prescription. The sugar-free formulation makes it a suitable choice for children who need regular doses, as it reduces the risk of dental decay associated with sugar-containing medicines.

 

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

 

Before giving this medicine to your child, read the following carefully. Do not use this suspension if any of the contraindications below apply.

Do not use if your child:

  • Is under 2 months of age (or under 3 months corrected age if premature)
  • Has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any other ingredient in the suspension
  • Is already taking another medicine containing paracetamol — this includes many cold and flu remedies
  • Has severe liver or kidney disease

Possible drug interactions — tell your pharmacist if your child is taking:

  • Warfarin or other anticoagulants (regular paracetamol use may increase bleeding risk)
  • Metoclopramide or domperidone (may speed up paracetamol absorption)
  • Cholestyramine (may reduce paracetamol absorption if taken within one hour)
  • Any other paracetamol-containing product

 

How Should You Use Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension?

 

Always use the oral dosing syringe provided in the pack — never use a kitchen spoon, as this will not give an accurate dose. Shake the bottle well before each use.

  1. Remove the bottle cap and insert the syringe into the neck of the bottle
  2. Invert the bottle and draw up the correct dose for your child's age or weight
  3. Return the bottle to an upright position and remove the syringe
  4. Place the tip of the syringe gently into your baby's mouth, towards the inside of the cheek
  5. Slowly push the plunger to release the suspension — do not squirt it to the back of the throat
  6. Rinse the syringe with clean water after each use
Age Group Dose 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

If your child's fever does not improve within 24 hours, or their pain persists beyond 3 days, seek medical advice. For broader family health needs, our cold and flu range includes additional products to help manage symptoms in older children and adults.

 

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

 

Paracetamol is generally very well tolerated in children when used at the correct dose. Side effects are uncommon, but you should be aware of the following.

Common side effects:

  • None reported at therapeutic doses in most children

Less common side effects:

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Flushing

Serious side effects — seek immediate medical help if your child develops:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of a serious allergic reaction)
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  • Signs of liver problems: yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea

 

How Should You Store Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension?

 

  • Store below 25°C — do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Store in the original packaging to protect from light
  • 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 looking for other essentials to keep at home, our first aid collection has everything from wound care to thermometers, so you're always prepared.

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 Sugar Free Infant Suspension online in the UK?

You can buy Calpol Sugar Free Infant Strawberry Suspension directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter medicine. Browse our full baby and toddler range for more infant health essentials.

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

It contains paracetamol 120mg per 5ml, which works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system. This reduces the signals that cause pain and raise body temperature. It typically begins to take effect within 30–60 minutes of administration.

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

Shake the bottle well, then use the oral syringe provided to draw up the correct dose. Place the syringe tip gently inside your baby's cheek and slowly depress the plunger. Never use a kitchen spoon, as this will not measure the dose accurately.

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

Doses vary by age: 2.5ml for babies aged 2–6 months, 5ml for children aged 6–24 months, and 7.5ml for children aged 2–4 years. Doses may be repeated every 4–6 hours, but do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period.

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

Side effects are rare when the correct dose is used. Possible reactions include skin rash, itching, or in very rare cases, a serious allergic reaction causing swelling of the face or throat. Stop use immediately and seek urgent medical help if a serious reaction occurs.

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

For mild reactions such as a skin rash, stop giving the medicine and consult your pharmacist or GP. If your child shows signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or collapse — call 999 immediately. Always ensure you are using the correct dose for your child's age.

Who is eligible to use Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension?

This suspension is suitable for babies aged 2 months and over, including premature babies who have reached at least 3 months corrected gestational age and weigh more than 4kg. It is not suitable for children with a known allergy to paracetamol or any of the other listed ingredients.

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

Overdose with paracetamol can cause serious liver damage, even if your child appears well at first. If you think your child has received more than the recommended dose, go to your nearest A&E department immediately or call 999. Do not wait for symptoms to develop before seeking help.

What are alternatives to Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension?

Ibuprofen-based suspensions, such as Nurofen for Children, are an alternative for babies over 3 months who weigh more than 5kg. Ibuprofen also has anti-inflammatory properties, which may be useful for certain conditions. Your pharmacist can advise on the most appropriate choice for your child. You can also explore our pain relief collection for further options.

Can I give Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension after my baby's vaccinations?

Yes. For babies aged 2–3 months, Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension can be given to treat fever following vaccination. The NHS recommends giving 2.5ml as soon as possible after the vaccination, with a second 2.5ml dose 4–6 hours later if needed. Do not give more than 2 doses for post-vaccination fever in this age group without medical advice.

Is Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension safe for babies with allergies?

The suspension is free from sugar, gluten, and artificial colours, making it suitable for many children with dietary sensitivities. However, always check the full ingredients list on the packaging, as it does contain other excipients such as maltitol liquid and sorbitol. If your child has a known allergy to any ingredient, do not use this product and speak to your pharmacist.

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

For pain relief, do not use for more than 3 days without seeking medical advice. For fever, do not use for more than 24 hours in children aged 2–3 months, or more than 3 days in older children, without consulting a doctor. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended.

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

Do not give this suspension alongside any other medicine containing paracetamol, including many cold and flu remedies. If your child is taking any prescribed medicines, including warfarin or anticonvulsants, speak to your pharmacist or GP before use. Always check labels carefully to avoid accidental double-dosing.

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

Both products contain the same active ingredient — paracetamol 120mg per 5ml — and are suitable from 2 months of age. The key difference is that the sugar-free version does not contain sucrose, making it a better choice for children who need frequent doses or whose dentist has advised avoiding sugar-containing medicines. The efficacy of both formulations is equivalent.

What are the latest guidelines on using paracetamol suspensions in infants?

Current NHS and NICE guidance recommends paracetamol as a first-line option for managing mild to moderate pain and fever in children, used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration. Routine use to prevent post-vaccination fever is no longer recommended, except in specific circumstances such as in babies aged 2–3 months receiving their first vaccinations. Always follow up-to-date NHS guidance and consult your pharmacist or GP if you are unsure.

How Should You Use Calpol Sugar Free Infant Strawberry Suspension?

Always use the oral dosing syringe included in the pack — never a household spoon, as this will not give an accurate measurement. Shake the bottle well before every use to ensure the suspension is evenly mixed. Administer the dose slowly into the inside of your child's cheek, not directly to the back of the throat.

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

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

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

Give the suspension as soon as your child shows signs of pain or a raised temperature — there is no specific time of day that is better than another. If your baby has just had their vaccinations, you can give the first dose shortly after the injection to help manage any fever that develops. Try to space doses evenly throughout the day to maintain consistent relief, and always ensure at least 4 hours have passed since the previous dose.

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

For pain relief, do not use this suspension for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. For fever in babies aged 2–3 months, do not use for more than 24 hours without consulting a doctor. If your child's symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen at any point, stop use and speak to your GP or pharmacist promptly. Prolonged or repeated use without medical supervision is not recommended.

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

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Calpol Sugar Free 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. Most children experience no side effects at all. That said, it is important to know what to look out for, so you can act quickly if something does not seem right.

  • Skin rash or mild itching
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort (uncommon at therapeutic doses)
  • Flushing

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

Less common reactions are rare but can occur, particularly in children with underlying sensitivities. If you notice any of the following, stop giving the medicine and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP.

  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Changes in urine colour (dark or tea-coloured urine)
  • Persistent nausea or loss of appetite
  • Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)

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

Serious side effects are very rare when the medicine is used correctly. However, you should seek emergency medical help immediately if your child develops any of the following signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) or severe skin reaction.

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe skin blistering, peeling, or a widespread rash
  • Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness

Call 999 immediately if you observe any of these symptoms. Do not wait to see if they improve on their own.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If your child develops a mild reaction such as a rash, stop giving the suspension and contact your pharmacist or GP for advice. For any serious reaction, call 999 or take your child to the nearest A&E department without delay. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk — this helps improve medicine safety for all children in the UK.

Can Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. The most important interaction to be aware of is with other medicines containing paracetamol. Many over-the-counter cold and flu remedies, as well as some prescription medicines, contain paracetamol — giving these alongside Calpol can lead to accidental overdose. Paracetamol may also interact with warfarin (increasing the risk of bleeding with regular use), metoclopramide, domperidone, and cholestyramine. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines your child is currently taking before starting this 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

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