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Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml oral susp SF

Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml oral susp SF

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  • ✔️ Relieves children's fever, pain, and inflammation effectively
  • ✔️ Sugar-free formula suitable for children from 3 months
  • ✔️ Works within 20–30 minutes of administration
  • ✔️ Anti-inflammatory action targets teething, earache, and cold symptoms
  • ✔️ Weight-based dosing ensures accurate, safe relief for your child

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What Is Children's Ibuprofen Suspension and How Does It Help?

 

When your child has a fever, earache, teething pain, or the aches that come with a cold, you want something that works — and works safely. Children's ibuprofen suspension is one of the most widely used over-the-counter medicines for children in the UK, recommended by the NHS for mild to moderate pain and high temperature. Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Oral Suspension is a sugar-free liquid formulation, making it a practical choice for everyday use. At just £3.95, it's an accessible option for parents looking to manage their child's discomfort at home. You can find it alongside other trusted products in our baby and toddler range.

This suspension contains ibuprofen at a concentration of 100mg per 5ml. It is suitable for children aged 3 months and over, provided they weigh at least 5kg. Because it's sugar free, it's also a sensible option for children with dietary restrictions or those whose dentist has advised limiting sugar intake.

 

How Does Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension Work?

 

Ibuprofen belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. It works by inhibiting enzymes known as cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), which are responsible for producing prostaglandins — the chemicals that trigger pain, fever, and inflammation in the body. By reducing prostaglandin production, ibuprofen helps to:

  • Lower a raised temperature (antipyretic effect)
  • Reduce pain signals sent to the brain (analgesic effect)
  • Decrease localised swelling and inflammation (anti-inflammatory effect)
  • Provide relief typically within 20–30 minutes of administration

The oral suspension form means the medicine is absorbed quickly through the gut, making it well suited to children who cannot swallow tablets.

 

Who Is Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension Suitable For?

 

This suspension is designed specifically for children, not adults. It is appropriate for a range of common childhood conditions where pain or fever relief is needed. The NHS advises ibuprofen for children as a first-line option for fever and mild to moderate pain when paracetamol alone is insufficient.

  • Children aged 3 months and over weighing at least 5kg
  • Children with fever due to colds, flu, or post-vaccination reactions
  • Children experiencing teething pain, earache, or sore throat
  • Children with mild musculoskeletal pain or headache

It is not suitable for children under 3 months, those with known hypersensitivity to ibuprofen or aspirin, or children with active gastrointestinal problems such as peptic ulcers.

 

How Does Galpharm Ibuprofen Suspension Compare to Calpol Ibuprofen?

 

Feature Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Calpol Six Plus Ibuprofen Suspension
Active ingredient Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml
Sugar free Yes Yes
Minimum age 3 months (≥5kg) 6 years
Price (approx.) £3.95 £4.50–£5.50

 

Is Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension Safe to Store at Home?

 

Yes — provided you follow the storage instructions carefully. Keep the bottle below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate, as this can affect the consistency of the suspension. Always keep it out of the reach and sight of children. Once opened, check the expiry date on the bottle and do not use beyond it. If you're building a home medicine cabinet, you might also want to explore our first aid collection for other essentials.

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

Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Oral Suspension SF specifications
Treatment category Pain relief and fever reduction in children
Mechanism of action COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor (NSAID)
Effective for Mild to moderate pain, fever, inflammation
Suitable for Children aged 3 months and over (≥5kg)
Active ingredient Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml
Strengths 100mg/5ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Preparation Oral suspension
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Oral Suspension SF

 

What Is Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension and What Is It Used For?

 

Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Oral Suspension is a sugar-free liquid medicine used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever in children. It is an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and works by reducing the body's production of prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for pain and raised temperature. The NHS recommends ibuprofen as a suitable option for managing fever and pain in children aged 3 months and over. Common uses include relief from teething pain, earache, sore throat, headache, post-immunisation fever, and the discomfort associated with colds and flu.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

 

Before giving this medicine to your child, read the following carefully. Do not use this suspension if your child:

  • Is under 3 months of age or weighs less than 5kg
  • Has a known allergy to ibuprofen, aspirin, or any other NSAID
  • Has or has had a peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Has severe kidney, liver, or heart failure
  • Has chickenpox (ibuprofen may increase the risk of serious skin infections in this condition)

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if your child has asthma, kidney problems, or any long-term health condition. The following medicines may interact with ibuprofen:

  • Aspirin or other NSAIDs (increased risk of side effects)
  • Warfarin or other anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk)
  • ACE inhibitors or diuretics (reduced effectiveness and kidney risk)
  • Corticosteroids (increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding)
  • Methotrexate (ibuprofen may increase methotrexate toxicity)

 

How Should You Use Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

 

Always use the oral syringe or measuring device provided with the bottle. Do not use a household teaspoon, as this may result in an inaccurate dose. Follow these steps:

  1. Shake the bottle well before each use.
  2. Check your child's weight and refer to the dosage table below.
  3. Draw up the correct dose using the oral syringe.
  4. Administer the suspension directly into your child's mouth, aiming for the inside of the cheek.
  5. Replace the cap securely after use.
Age Group Weight Dose (ml) Frequency
3–6 months 5–7.6kg 2.5ml Up to 3 times in 24 hours
6–12 months 7.7–9kg 2.5ml Up to 3 times in 24 hours
1–3 years 10–15kg 5ml Up to 3 times in 24 hours
4–6 years 16–20kg 7.5ml Up to 3 times in 24 hours
7–9 years 21–28kg 10ml Up to 3 times in 24 hours
10–12 years 29–40kg 15ml Up to 3 times in 24 hours

Leave at least 6–8 hours between doses. Do not give more than 3 doses in 24 hours. If your child's symptoms persist beyond 3 days, or worsen at any point, seek medical advice. For broader children's pain relief options, browse our pain relief collection.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

 

Like all medicines, ibuprofen can cause side effects, although not every child will experience them. If your child develops signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash — stop the medicine immediately and call 999 or go to A&E.

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

  • Stomach upset or abdominal discomfort
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Indigestion

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

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Mild skin rash
  • Fluid retention
  • Raised blood pressure (with prolonged use)

Giving ibuprofen with or after food may help reduce the chance of stomach upset. If you notice any unexpected effects, contact your pharmacist or GP. You can also find useful information about managing childhood illnesses in our cold and flu range.

 

How Should You Store Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Do not refrigerate — cold temperatures can alter the suspension
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children at all times
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacist

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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 children's ibuprofen suspension online in the UK?

You can buy Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen 100mg/5ml Oral Suspension directly from Cured Pharmacy online for £3.95, with no prescription required. It is a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, meaning it is available over the counter. Browse our baby and toddler collection for more children's health essentials.

How does children's ibuprofen suspension work in the body?

Ibuprofen works by blocking COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins — the chemicals that cause pain, fever, and inflammation. By reducing prostaglandin levels, ibuprofen lowers temperature and eases discomfort. It is absorbed through the gut and typically begins to work within 20–30 minutes of being given.

What age can children take ibuprofen oral suspension?

Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension is suitable for children aged 3 months and over, provided they weigh at least 5kg. It should not be given to babies under 3 months of age under any circumstances. Always check the dosage table on the packaging and confirm the correct dose based on your child's weight, not just their age.

How often can I give my child ibuprofen suspension?

You can give ibuprofen suspension every 6 to 8 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 3 doses in any 24-hour period. Always leave at least 6 hours between doses. If your child still has a fever or pain after 3 days, stop the medicine and seek advice from your GP or pharmacist.

What is the correct dose of children's ibuprofen suspension by weight?

Dosing is based on your child's weight rather than age alone. For example, children weighing 5–7.6kg receive 2.5ml, while children weighing 29–40kg receive 15ml per dose. Always use the oral syringe provided and refer to the dosage table on the packaging for accurate guidance. Never estimate using a household spoon.

What are the side effects of children's ibuprofen suspension?

Common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhoea, and indigestion. Less commonly, children may experience headache, mild skin rash, or dizziness. Giving the suspension with or after food can help reduce stomach-related side effects. Stop use and seek urgent medical help if your child shows signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty.

Can I give my child ibuprofen and paracetamol at the same time?

Ibuprofen and paracetamol work differently and can sometimes be used together or alternated for managing fever or pain in children, but you should always follow NHS guidance or speak to a pharmacist before doing so. Never exceed the recommended dose of either medicine. Do not give both at the same time without professional advice.

Is Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension really sugar free?

Yes, this suspension is completely sugar free, making it suitable for children who need to limit their sugar intake — including those with diabetes or those whose dentist has advised reducing dietary sugar. It is also free from artificial colours. Always check the full ingredients list on the packaging if your child has known allergies or intolerances.

Who should not use children's ibuprofen suspension?

This suspension should not be given to children under 3 months of age or those weighing less than 5kg. It is also not suitable for children with a known allergy to ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, or those with active gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding. Children with chickenpox should not be given ibuprofen, as it may increase the risk of serious skin infections.

What happens if I accidentally give my child too much ibuprofen suspension?

If you think your child has taken too much ibuprofen, contact NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E immediately — even if your child seems well. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, or in severe cases, fits. Always keep medicines stored safely out of children's reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

What are the alternatives to children's ibuprofen suspension?

The main alternative for children's pain and fever relief is paracetamol suspension (such as Calpol), which is suitable from 2 months of age. Unlike ibuprofen, paracetamol does not have anti-inflammatory properties but is gentler on the stomach. You can explore a range of children's pain relief options in our pain relief collection.

Can children's ibuprofen suspension be used for teething pain?

Yes, ibuprofen suspension can be used to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with teething in children aged 3 months and over who weigh at least 5kg. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly useful for the localised gum inflammation that teething causes. Always use the correct dose for your child's weight and do not exceed 3 doses in 24 hours.

How long can my child take ibuprofen suspension for?

For fever, ibuprofen suspension should not be used for more than 3 days without seeking medical advice. For pain relief, it should not be used for more than 3 days in children under 12 without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended and may increase the risk of side effects.

What medicines interact with children's ibuprofen suspension?

Ibuprofen can interact with several medicines, including aspirin, other NSAIDs, warfarin, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, corticosteroids, and methotrexate. These interactions can increase the risk of side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding or reduced kidney function. Always tell your pharmacist or GP about any other medicines your child is taking before starting ibuprofen.

What is the latest guidance on using ibuprofen for children's fever?

Current NHS guidance recommends ibuprofen as an effective option for reducing fever and relieving pain in children aged 3 months and over. The NHS advises that either ibuprofen or paracetamol can be used, but you should not routinely give both together — only consider alternating them if one alone is not controlling symptoms. Always follow the dosage instructions and seek medical advice if you are unsure.

How Should You Use Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

Always use the oral syringe or measuring device supplied with the bottle — never a household teaspoon, as this can lead to inaccurate dosing. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the suspension is evenly mixed. Follow these steps each time you give a dose:

If your child dislikes the taste, you may give the dose with a small amount of water or juice, but do not mix it directly into a full bottle of milk or juice as this may affect the dose received.

What Is the Correct Dose of Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

Dosing is based on your child's body weight, not age alone. Always weigh your child accurately before calculating the dose. The table below provides guidance based on typical weight ranges for each age group.

Do not give more than 3 doses in any 24-hour period. Leave at least 6 to 8 hours between each dose.

When Is the Best Time to Use Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

Give the suspension when your child is experiencing pain or has a raised temperature — there is no fixed time of day. However, giving it with or shortly after food or milk can help reduce the chance of stomach upset, which is one of the more common side effects of ibuprofen. If your child wakes in the night with fever or discomfort, it is safe to give a dose at that time provided at least 6 hours have passed since the last dose.

For post-vaccination fever, the NHS advises giving ibuprofen only if your child develops a fever after their vaccine — do not give it before vaccination as a preventive measure, as this may reduce the effectiveness of the immune response.

How Long Can You Use Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension For?

For fever, do not use this suspension for more than 3 days without seeking medical advice. For pain relief, the same 3-day limit applies for children under 12 years of age. If your child's symptoms have not improved within this time, or if they worsen at any point, stop the medicine and consult your GP or pharmacist promptly.

This suspension is intended for short-term use only. It is not suitable for long-term or chronic pain management in children without medical supervision. If your child regularly needs pain relief, speak to your GP to identify and address the underlying cause.

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

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

Like all medicines, ibuprofen can cause side effects in some children, though many children tolerate it well when used correctly and for short periods. The most common side effects affect the digestive system. Giving the suspension with or after food can help reduce these effects.

  • Stomach pain or abdominal discomfort
  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Indigestion or heartburn

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

Less common side effects occur in fewer children but are still worth being aware of. If any of the following persist or concern you, stop the medicine and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Mild skin rash or itching
  • Fluid retention (swelling of the hands or feet)
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Raised blood pressure with prolonged use

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop giving the medicine straight away and call 999 or go to A&E if your child experiences any of the following:

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; sudden rash or hives
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding: vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; black or tarry stools
  • Severe skin reactions: blistering, peeling, or widespread rash
  • Signs of kidney problems: significantly reduced urine output, swelling
  • Worsening of asthma symptoms

Children with chickenpox should not be given ibuprofen, as it has been associated with an increased risk of serious secondary skin infections in this condition.

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as stomach upset, try giving the next dose with food and monitor your child closely. If the side effect is moderate or does not resolve, stop the medicine and contact your pharmacist or GP for advice. For any serious or unexpected reaction, seek emergency medical help immediately. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Galpharm Children's Ibuprofen Suspension Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Ibuprofen can interact with a number of other medicines, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of either medicine. Always tell your pharmacist or GP about any other medicines your child is taking — including prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, and herbal remedies. Known interactions include:

  • Aspirin and other NSAIDs — increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects
  • Warfarin and anticoagulants — increased bleeding risk
  • ACE inhibitors and diuretics — reduced effectiveness and potential kidney strain
  • Corticosteroids — increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Methotrexate — ibuprofen may increase methotrexate toxicity

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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