What drug is used to reduce temperature? A Guide to Antipyretics

October 11, 2025 •

3 min read

Fevers are a natural part of the body's immune response to infection and can actually help slow the growth of bacteria and viruses. However, when a fever causes significant discomfort, knowing what drug is used to reduce temperature is key to finding relief. This guide explores the most common and effective over-the-counter fever reducers and provides essential safety information for proper use.

Quick Summary

An overview of common antipyretic medications such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs like ibuprofen, explaining their mechanisms of action, appropriate uses, and important safety considerations for both adults and children.

Key Points

Antipyretic Options: The main medications to reduce a fever are acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin.
Acetaminophen vs. NSAIDs: Acetaminophen primarily relieves pain and fever, while NSAIDs also reduce inflammation, making them useful for conditions involving swelling.
Children's Safety: Aspirin should never be given to children or teenagers due to the risk of Reye's syndrome; acetaminophen and ibuprofen are recommended for pediatric use as directed by a doctor.
Risk of Overdose: Accidental overdose of acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage, so it's vital to check for the ingredient in all combined cold and flu products.
Important Precautions: Always follow dosage instructions, consider existing health conditions, and consult a healthcare provider for persistent or high fevers.
Non-Medication Relief: For low-grade fevers, non-drug methods like resting, staying hydrated, and using cool compresses can effectively provide comfort.

Understanding Antipyretic Medications

Medications that reduce fever are known as antipyretics. These drugs work by targeting the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature. By interfering with the signals that cause the body to raise its temperature, antipyretics help to lower the 'set point,' allowing the body to cool down. The most widely available antipyretics fall into two main categories: acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is a common over-the-counter medication for reducing fever and relieving pain. It is thought to work primarily in the brain and spinal cord to inhibit enzymes that lead to the production of prostaglandins. This action reduces signals to the brain that raise body temperature.

Safe for a wider population: It is generally considered safer for the stomach than NSAIDs.
Pediatric use: Acetaminophen is a preferred option for fever reduction in children and infants older than 12 weeks, as directed by a healthcare provider.
Primary concern: The main risk is liver damage, particularly from overdose. It is important to follow dosage instructions and check other medications for acetaminophen to avoid accidental overdose.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs reduce fever and decrease inflammation by inhibiting enzymes that produce prostaglandins. This broader action can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal side effects.

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

Ibuprofen is a popular NSAID used for reducing fever and managing pain, swelling, and inflammation.

Uses: Particularly useful when fever is accompanied by inflammatory symptoms.
Pediatric use: Generally recommended for children six months and older, with dosage based on weight.
Side effects: Can cause stomach irritation and has been linked to kidney problems with long-term or high-dose use.

Naproxen (Aleve)

Naproxen is another NSAID for fever and pain, known for its longer duration of action.

Uses: Often chosen for longer-lasting relief.
Age restriction: Typically not recommended for individuals under 12 years of age.
Side effects: Can be harder on the stomach and is not recommended for those at risk for heart disease.

Aspirin (Bayer)

Aspirin is an older NSAID used to reduce fever and pain. It also inhibits enzymes to reduce prostaglandin production.

Cardiac use: Used in low doses for cardiovascular disease prevention under a doctor's supervision.
Child safety: Should never be given to children or teenagers with a fever due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
Side effects: Can cause stomach irritation and increase the risk of bleeding.

Antipyretic Medications: A Comparative Table


Feature	Acetaminophen (Tylenol)	Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)	Naproxen (Aleve)	Aspirin (Bayer)
Drug Class	Miscellaneous Analgesic/Antipyretic	Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)	Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)	Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Primary Action	Reduces fever & pain; minimal anti-inflammatory effect	Reduces fever, pain, & inflammation	Reduces fever, pain, & inflammation; longer-lasting effect	Reduces fever, pain, & inflammation; blood-thinning effect
Suitable for Children?	Yes, 12 weeks and older (or as directed)	Yes, 6 months and older	No, typically for 12 years and older	NO, risk of Reye's Syndrome
Key Caution	Potential for liver damage with overdose	Stomach irritation; cardiovascular risk with long-term use	Can be harder on the stomach; cardiovascular risk	Reye's Syndrome in children; stomach bleeding risk
Dosing Frequency	Every 4-6 hours	Every 6-8 hours	Every 8-12 hours	Every 4 hours (adults only)

Important Safety Precautions

Using fever reducers safely is crucial.

Check Ingredients: Many products contain acetaminophen or NSAIDs. Always read labels to avoid accidental overdose from taking multiple products with the same ingredient.
Mind the Maximums: Do not exceed the daily maximum dose.
Know Your Health: Certain health conditions affect which fever reducer is safest. Consult a healthcare professional if you have pre-existing conditions or take other medications.
Follow Directions: Dose based on weight for infants and children and use the provided measuring device.

Alternative Fever Management Strategies

Medication isn't always necessary for low-grade fevers. Non-drug options can provide comfort:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Rest: Rest helps the body fight illness.
Dress Lightly: Wear lightweight clothing.
Lukewarm Bath: A lukewarm bath can help cool the body. Avoid cold water, which can increase body temperature.

Conclusion

Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen are common over-the-counter options for reducing fever. The best choice depends on age, accompanying symptoms, and health. Acetaminophen is a good general option, while ibuprofen is useful for inflammation. Naproxen provides longer relief. Aspirin should never be given to children. Understanding these differences and following safety guidelines allows for responsible fever management. Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe fevers. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers resources on safe medication use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Acetaminophen primarily works to reduce fever and relieve pain but has minimal anti-inflammatory effects. Ibuprofen is an NSAID that reduces fever, pain, and also inflammation throughout the body.

No, aspirin should never be given to children or teenagers with a fever due to its association with Reye's syndrome, a serious and potentially fatal condition.

Antipyretics work by acting on the hypothalamus, the brain's temperature-regulating center. They inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause the body's temperature to rise, thereby resetting the body's thermostat to a lower level.

Taking more than the recommended dose of acetaminophen can cause severe liver damage, which may be life-threatening. It is crucial to read labels carefully to avoid accidental overdose, especially when using combination cold and flu products.

While some healthcare providers may suggest alternating acetaminophen and ibuprofen for better fever control, others advise against it due to the increased risk of dosing errors. If considering this, always consult a doctor and keep a detailed log to prevent accidental overdose.

Naproxen is an effective NSAID for reducing fever and providing pain relief. Its main benefit is its long-lasting effect, with doses typically needed only every 8 to 12 hours. However, it can be harder on the stomach than other options and is not recommended for children under 12.

You should contact a healthcare professional if a fever persists for more than three days, reaches 103°F (39.4°C) or higher, or is accompanied by other severe symptoms such as a stiff neck, severe headache, or confusion.