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Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Oral Suspension orange flavour SF (200ml)

Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Oral Suspension orange flavour SF (200ml)

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  • ✔️ Relieves mild to moderate pain in children aged 6–12 years
  • ✔️ Reduces fever quickly, acting within 30–60 minutes
  • ✔️ Sugar-free formula protects children's dental health
  • ✔️ Orange flavour improves palatability for reluctant children
  • ✔️ 200ml bottle provides multiple doses for ongoing symptom management

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What Is Paracetamol Suspension for Children?

 

When your child has a temperature or is in pain, you want something that works reliably and is easy to give. Paracetamol suspension for children — this 250mg/5ml orange-flavoured, sugar-free liquid — is one of the most widely used medicines for managing mild to moderate pain and fever in children aged 6 years and over. At just £5.49 for a 200ml bottle, it offers a straightforward, pharmacist-recommended option you can keep in the medicine cabinet at home. If you're looking for other child-friendly health products, browse our Baby and Toddler range.

This formulation is sugar free, which matters more than you might think. Regular use of sugar-containing medicines can contribute to tooth decay in children, so a sugar-free option is a sensible choice — particularly for children who take paracetamol frequently. The orange flavour makes it more palatable, which helps enormously when you're trying to get a poorly child to take their medicine.

 

How Does Paracetamol Oral Suspension Work?

 

Paracetamol is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). It works centrally in the brain and spinal cord rather than at the site of inflammation, which is why it doesn't cause the stomach irritation sometimes associated with ibuprofen.

  • Inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) in the central nervous system, reducing prostaglandin synthesis
  • Prostaglandins are chemical messengers that signal pain and raise the body's temperature set-point in the hypothalamus
  • By reducing prostaglandin levels centrally, paracetamol lowers fever and dulls the perception of pain
  • Effects typically begin within 30–60 minutes of taking the dose and last approximately 4–6 hours

Because it acts centrally rather than peripherally, paracetamol does not reduce inflammation in the same way ibuprofen does. For straightforward fever or teething pain, however, it is highly effective and well tolerated in children.

 

Who Should Use This Paracetamol Suspension?

 

This 250mg/5ml suspension is formulated for children aged 6 years and over. It is suitable for a range of common childhood complaints where pain relief or fever management is needed.

  • Children aged 6–12 years with mild to moderate pain (e.g. headache, toothache, earache, sore throat)
  • Children with a fever (temperature of 38°C or above) caused by illness or post-vaccination reactions
  • Children who cannot swallow tablets or capsules and require a liquid formulation
  • Children who need a sugar-free medicine due to dietary requirements or dental health concerns

It is not suitable for children under 6 years — a lower-strength 120mg/5ml formulation is more appropriate for younger children. Always check the child's weight and age before dosing, and speak to a pharmacist if you are unsure which strength is right.

 

How Does This Suspension Compare to Other Paracetamol Products?

 

Feature Paracetamol 250mg/5ml SF Suspension (This Product) Paracetamol 120mg/5ml Suspension
Strength per 5ml 250mg 120mg
Suitable age range 6–12 years 3 months–6 years
Sugar free Yes Varies by brand
Volume 200ml Typically 100ml

 

How Should You Store This Suspension and Is It Clinically Suitable?

 

Store this suspension below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate — cold temperatures can affect the consistency of the liquid. Once opened, check the expiry date on the bottle and discard any unused medicine after the recommended period stated on the label. Keep the bottle tightly closed and well out of the reach of children.

Clinically, this paracetamol suspension for children is appropriate for short-term use only. If your child's fever persists for more than 3 days, or pain continues beyond 5 days without improvement, you should seek medical advice. For broader pain relief options for the whole family, explore our Pain Relief collection.

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.

Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Oral Suspension Orange Flavour SF 200ml specifications
Treatment category Pain relief and fever reduction
Mechanism of action Central COX inhibition reducing prostaglandin synthesis
Effective for Mild to moderate pain, fever
Suitable for Children aged 6–12 years
Active ingredient Paracetamol 250mg per 5ml
Pack size 200ml
Strength 250mg/5ml
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Analgesic / Antipyretic
Preparation Oral suspension
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Oral Suspension Orange Flavour SF 200ml

 

What Is Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Suspension and What Is It Used For?

 

Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Oral Suspension is a sugar-free, orange-flavoured liquid medicine used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever (high temperature) in children. It contains paracetamol as its active ingredient — one of the most widely used and well-studied medicines in the UK. The NHS recommends paracetamol as a first-line treatment for children's pain and fever when used at the correct dose.

Common conditions it is used for include headache, toothache, sore throat, earache, and the discomfort associated with colds and flu. It is also used to manage fever following childhood vaccinations. This suspension is specifically formulated for children aged 6 years and over who require a liquid rather than a solid dosage form.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using This Suspension?

 

Before giving this medicine to a child, read the following carefully. There are situations where paracetamol should be used with caution or avoided entirely.

Do not use this suspension if the child:

  • Is allergic to paracetamol or any other ingredient in the suspension
  • Is under 6 years of age (a lower-strength formulation is required)
  • Has severe liver or kidney disease
  • Is already taking another medicine containing paracetamol (risk of overdose)

Use with caution and speak to a pharmacist or doctor if the child:

  • Has liver or kidney problems
  • Is underweight or malnourished
  • Has a condition affecting alcohol metabolism (relevant to excipients in some formulations)
  • Is taking any regular prescribed medicines

Known drug interactions:

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

 

How Should You Use This Paracetamol Suspension?

 

Always use the measuring device (oral syringe or measuring spoon) provided or supplied with the product. Do not use a household teaspoon, as this may result in an inaccurate dose. Shake the bottle well before each use.

  1. Check the child's age and weight to confirm the correct dose
  2. Shake the bottle thoroughly before measuring
  3. Use the oral syringe or measuring spoon to draw up the correct volume
  4. Give the suspension directly into the child's mouth
  5. Note the time of the dose and do not repeat within 4 hours
  6. Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period
Age Group Dose (ml) Dose (mg) Frequency Max in 24 hours
6–8 years 5ml 250mg Every 4–6 hours 4 doses
8–10 years 7.5ml 375mg Every 4–6 hours 4 doses
10–12 years 10ml 500mg Every 4–6 hours 4 doses

If you are managing a child's cold or flu symptoms alongside pain, you may also find our Cold and Flu range helpful for additional symptom relief options.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of This Suspension?

 

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

Common side effects:

  • Nausea (feeling sick) — usually mild and transient
  • Stomach discomfort — rare at therapeutic doses

Less common side effects:

  • Skin rash or itching — may indicate a mild allergic reaction
  • Flushing
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension) — very rare, associated with intravenous use rather than oral
  • Blood disorders such as thrombocytopenia — extremely rare with oral use

Stop using the suspension and seek immediate medical attention if the child develops swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which is rare but requires urgent treatment. Overdose — even accidental — can cause serious liver damage. If you suspect an overdose, go to A&E immediately, even if the child seems well.

 

How Should You Store This Paracetamol Suspension?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Do not refrigerate — cold temperatures may affect 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
  • Dispose of any unused medicine safely — return to a pharmacy for disposal

For general first aid supplies to keep alongside this medicine at home, take a look at our First Aid collection.

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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 paracetamol suspension for children online in the UK?

You can order Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Oral Suspension directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £5.49 per 200ml bottle. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door.

How does paracetamol suspension work in a child's body?

Paracetamol works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the central nervous system — these are the chemical messengers responsible for signalling pain and raising body temperature. By reducing prostaglandin levels in the brain, it lowers fever and reduces the sensation of pain. It does not reduce inflammation in the same way ibuprofen does, but it is well tolerated and effective for most childhood pain and fever.

What is the correct dose of paracetamol 250mg/5ml for my child?

The dose depends on your child's age. Children aged 6–8 years typically take 5ml (250mg), children aged 8–10 years take 7.5ml (375mg), and children aged 10–12 years take 10ml (500mg). Doses can be repeated every 4–6 hours, but no more than 4 doses should be given in any 24-hour period. Always use the measuring device provided and check the label carefully.

Is this paracetamol suspension really sugar free?

Yes, this suspension is sugar free (SF), meaning it does not contain sucrose or glucose. This makes it a suitable choice for children who need to limit sugar intake or who are at higher risk of dental caries. It is sweetened with alternative sweeteners to maintain palatability without the sugar content.

Can I give this suspension to a child under 6 years old?

No — this 250mg/5ml formulation is not suitable for children under 6 years of age. Younger children require a lower-strength paracetamol suspension, typically 120mg/5ml, which is dosed according to their age and weight. Using the wrong strength can result in under- or over-dosing, so always check the label or ask a pharmacist before purchasing.

What should I do if I accidentally give my child too much paracetamol?

If you think your child has received more paracetamol than the recommended dose, go to your nearest A&E department or call 999 immediately — even if your child appears well. Paracetamol overdose can cause serious and potentially fatal liver damage that may not show symptoms for several hours. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking help.

How quickly does paracetamol suspension start to work?

Paracetamol oral suspension is generally absorbed relatively quickly from the gut, with effects typically beginning within 30–60 minutes of taking the dose. The pain-relieving and fever-reducing effects usually last around 4–6 hours. If your child's temperature or pain does not improve within this time, consult a pharmacist or GP.

Can I use this suspension alongside ibuprofen for my child?

Paracetamol and ibuprofen can sometimes be used together or alternated in children, but this should only be done on the advice of a healthcare professional. The NHS advises that you should not give both medicines at the same time unless a doctor or pharmacist has recommended it. Never exceed the recommended dose of either medicine.

What medicines interact with paracetamol suspension?

The most important interaction to be aware of is with other paracetamol-containing products — using them together can cause accidental overdose. Warfarin (a blood thinner) may also be affected by regular paracetamol use. Always check all medicines your child is taking, including cold and flu remedies, and speak to a pharmacist if you are unsure. You can also browse our Cold and Flu range for products that are paracetamol-free.

Who is eligible to use paracetamol 250mg/5ml oral suspension?

This suspension is suitable for children aged 6 to 12 years who need relief from mild to moderate pain or fever. It is particularly useful for children who cannot swallow tablets, or who require a sugar-free formulation. It is not suitable for children under 6 years, and adults should use standard paracetamol tablets or capsules instead.

What happens if I miss a dose of paracetamol suspension?

If you miss a dose, simply give the next dose when it is due — do not double up to make up for a missed one. Paracetamol is used as needed for pain or fever rather than on a strict schedule, so missing a dose is not usually a clinical concern. If your child's symptoms persist or worsen, seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.

How long can I use paracetamol suspension for my child?

Paracetamol suspension is intended for short-term use only. The NHS advises that if a child's fever persists for more than 3 days, or pain continues for more than 5 days without improvement, you should seek medical advice. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended, as it may mask an underlying condition that requires treatment.

What are the alternatives to paracetamol suspension for children?

The main alternative for children's pain and fever is ibuprofen oral suspension, which also has anti-inflammatory properties. However, ibuprofen is not suitable for all children — for example, those with asthma, kidney problems, or certain stomach conditions. For a broader range of options, visit our Pain Relief collection and speak to a pharmacist about which is most appropriate for your child.

Are there any side effects of paracetamol suspension I should watch for?

Paracetamol is generally very well tolerated at the correct dose, and serious side effects are rare. Occasionally, children may experience mild nausea or stomach discomfort. More rarely, a skin rash or itching may occur, which could indicate an allergic reaction — if this happens, stop the medicine and seek medical advice. Signs of a serious allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing require immediate emergency attention.

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

Current NHS guidance recommends paracetamol as a first-line option for managing fever and discomfort in children, alongside measures such as keeping the child cool and ensuring adequate fluid intake. The guidance emphasises using the correct dose for the child's age and weight, and not routinely alternating paracetamol with ibuprofen unless advised by a healthcare professional. Always refer to up-to-date NHS advice or consult a pharmacist for the most current recommendations.

How Should You Use Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Oral Suspension?

Always shake the bottle well before measuring each dose. Use the oral syringe or measuring spoon provided with the product — never use a household teaspoon, as this will not give an accurate measurement and could result in your child receiving too little or too much medicine.

Follow these steps each time you give a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Paracetamol 250mg/5ml Suspension?

The correct dose is determined by your child's age. Dosing by weight is more accurate where possible — if you are unsure, ask your pharmacist. The table below provides standard age-based dosing guidance for this 250mg/5ml formulation.

When Is the Best Time to Use This Paracetamol Suspension?

Give this suspension when your child is experiencing pain or has a raised temperature — it does not need to be taken at fixed times of day. It can be given with or without food, though giving it with a small amount of food or milk may help if your child has a sensitive stomach.

If you are managing a fever, monitor your child's temperature regularly and only repeat the dose when it is due (no sooner than 4 hours after the previous dose). Do not give doses "just in case" — use only when symptoms are present.

How Long Can You Use This Paracetamol Suspension For?

This suspension is intended for short-term use only. For fever, do not use for more than 3 days without seeking medical advice. For pain, do not use for more than 5 days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.

If your child's symptoms do not improve, worsen, or new symptoms develop, stop using the suspension and seek medical advice promptly. Prolonged or frequent use without medical supervision is not appropriate and may mask an underlying condition requiring treatment.

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 Paracetamol Suspension?

When used at the correct dose, paracetamol is one of the most well-tolerated medicines available for children. Serious side effects are rare. The most commonly reported effects include:

  • Nausea (feeling sick) — usually mild and short-lived
  • Stomach discomfort or abdominal pain — uncommon at therapeutic doses

These effects are generally mild and do not usually require you to stop the medicine. Giving the suspension with a small amount of food may help reduce any stomach discomfort.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Paracetamol Suspension?

Less common side effects occur in a small number of children and may include:

  • Skin rash, itching, or hives (urticaria)
  • Flushing of the skin
  • Headache
  • Feeling generally unwell (malaise)
  • Changes in blood counts — extremely rare with short-term oral use

If your child develops a skin rash or itching after taking this suspension, stop the medicine and speak to a pharmacist or GP. A rash may indicate a mild allergic reaction that requires assessment.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Paracetamol Suspension?

Serious side effects from paracetamol at the correct dose are very rare. However, you should be aware of the following:

  • Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. This is a medical emergency — call 999 immediately.
  • Liver damage — this is associated with overdose, not therapeutic use. Even accidental overdose can cause serious, potentially fatal liver injury. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if overdose is suspected, even if the child appears well.
  • Kidney damage — rare, associated with prolonged excessive use.

Never exceed the recommended dose, and never use this suspension alongside other paracetamol-containing products.

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as nausea or stomach discomfort, try giving the suspension with a small amount of food and monitor your child. If the side effect persists or worsens, stop the medicine and seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.

For any sign of an allergic reaction — including rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty — stop the medicine immediately and seek urgent medical attention. In the case of suspected overdose, do not wait for symptoms: go to A&E or call 999 straight away.

Can Paracetamol Suspension Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes, paracetamol can interact with certain other medicines. The most clinically significant interactions include:

  • Other paracetamol-containing products — using them together significantly increases the risk of overdose. Always check the ingredients of cold and flu remedies, combination analgesics, and other over-the-counter medicines.
  • Warfarin — regular use of paracetamol may enhance the anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effect of warfarin. Occasional use is generally acceptable, but regular use should be discussed with a doctor.
  • Metoclopramide and domperidone — these medicines may increase the speed at which paracetamol is absorbed.
  • Cholestyramine — may reduce paracetamol absorption if taken within one hour of the dose.

Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines your child is 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

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