From the Guidelines
No, a prescription is not required for paracetamol when temperature is raised, as it can be taken based on symptoms and is available over-the-counter. According to the NICE guidelines for managing COVID-19 symptoms in the community, published in the BMJ in 2020 1, paracetamol is preferred over non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for patients with COVID-19, and patients should be advised to take it if they have fever and other symptoms that antipyretics would help treat. The key points to consider when taking paracetamol for a raised temperature include:
- Drinking fluids regularly to avoid dehydration, with a limit of 2 litres per day 1
- Taking paracetamol only while symptoms of fever and other symptoms are present 1
- Being aware that antipyretics should not be used solely to reduce body temperature, but rather to alleviate symptoms 1 It's essential to follow the package instructions carefully and use the measuring device provided with liquid formulations to ensure safe and effective use of paracetamol. Additionally, patients should be cautious not to exceed the recommended daily dose and be aware of potential interactions with other medications. By following these guidelines and using paracetamol responsibly, patients can effectively manage their symptoms and reduce their fever without requiring a prescription.
From the Research
Paracetamol Prescription for Elevated Temperature
- Paracetamol is commonly used to reduce fever, but its necessity and effectiveness are debated 2, 3.
- Studies suggest that paracetamol is not always required to treat fever, especially when it is the only symptom 2, 3.
- The use of paracetamol to prevent febrile convulsions has been proven ineffective, and it may even adversely affect the immune response 2.
- In critically ill patients, the decision to use paracetamol to reduce fever should be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the potential benefits and harms 4.
Alternatives to Paracetamol
- Ibuprofen is an alternative to paracetamol for reducing fever in children, and it may be more effective in some cases 5, 6.
- The combination of paracetamol and ibuprofen may be more effective than either drug alone in reducing fever, but it also increases the risk of exceeding the maximum recommended dose 5, 6.
Prescription Requirements
- There is no clear indication that paracetamol needs to be prescribed when temperature is raised, as it is available over-the-counter in many countries 3.
- However, the decision to use paracetamol or other antipyretics should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, especially in cases where the patient has underlying medical conditions or is taking other medications 4, 5, 6.