What is Calpol?

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

According to reports, more than 90% of children are exposed to paracetamol, making branded versions like Calpol a cornerstone of paediatric care for managing pain and fever. Understanding what is Calpol and its proper use is essential for all parents and caregivers.

Quick Summary

Calpol is a brand name for the medication paracetamol, used to relieve mild-to-moderate pain and reduce fever. Available in various formulations, it is most commonly known for paediatric use but also comes in adult-strength versions. Following correct instructions for administration is crucial to ensure safe and effective use.

Key Points

Active Ingredient: Calpol is a brand name for paracetamol, which is also known as acetaminophen in some countries.
Mechanism of Action: It works as an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer) by blocking pain-signaling chemicals in the brain, but it is not anti-inflammatory.
Common Uses: Calpol is used for treating mild-to-moderate pain like headaches, toothaches, teething discomfort, and for reducing fever associated with colds and flu.
Administration: Administration instructions must be carefully followed based on the user's age and weight, especially for children, as exceeding the recommended amount can cause serious liver damage.
Forms and Strengths: The medication is available in different strengths and forms, including infant suspension, SixPlus, fastmelts, and suppositories, to suit various age groups.
Potential Risks: Side effects are rare with proper use, but a severe overdose can lead to life-threatening liver failure, and immediate medical help is needed.
Storage: Proper storage is important for stability. Opened liquid formulations often have a limited shelf life and all medicines should be kept out of children's reach.

Understanding Calpol: The Active Ingredient

Calpol is a well-known brand of over-the-counter medication, but it is not the active ingredient itself. The primary active component in all Calpol products is paracetamol. In the United States, paracetamol is known as acetaminophen and is the same drug found in products like Tylenol. Calpol is produced by McNeil Products Limited.

How Calpol Works

Paracetamol is classified as an analgesic (pain reliever) and an antipyretic (fever reducer). While its precise mechanism is not fully understood, it is thought to work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the brain. Prostaglandins are chemical messengers that contribute to the sensation of pain and regulate body temperature. By blocking these messengers, paracetamol reduces both pain and fever. Notably, Calpol (paracetamol) has only weak anti-inflammatory effects, unlike non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen.

Uses of Calpol

Calpol is a versatile medication used for a variety of conditions involving mild-to-moderate pain and fever. Its most common applications include:

Fever: Effective for reducing high temperatures caused by infections, flu, or post-immunization reactions.
Pain Relief: Provides relief for headaches, toothaches, earache, and teething pain.
Cold and Flu Symptoms: Alleviates the body aches and general discomfort associated with colds and flu.
Mild Aches and Pains: Eases general aches and pains, including sore throat and muscular pain.

Calpol Product Range and Forms

Calpol is available in a variety of strengths and formulations designed for different age groups. The most common forms include:

Infant Suspension: A liquid syrup typically used for babies from 2 months of age.
SixPlus Suspension: A stronger liquid formulation for older children.
Fastmelts/Tablets: Tablets that dissolve in the mouth or can be chewed, designed for older children and adults.
Suppositories: Administered rectally, often used when oral medication is not possible due to vomiting.

Administration for Safe Use

Accurate administration is paramount for the safe use of Calpol. Always use the lowest effective amount for the shortest possible time. For liquid formulations, always use the syringe or spoon provided in the packaging.

Key Administration Guidelines:

Check the Label: Administration depends on the specific product (infant, SixPlus, tablets) and the user's age and weight. Always read the packaging carefully.
Frequency: It is important to follow instructions regarding how often the medication can be administered.
No Double-Dosing: Never give a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Avoid Overlap: Be careful not to administer Calpol if the user is taking any other medication that also contains paracetamol.

Comparing Calpol (Paracetamol) with Other Pain Relievers

It is important to understand the difference between Calpol (paracetamol) and other common pain relievers, particularly ibuprofen, which is an NSAID.


Feature	Calpol (Paracetamol)	Ibuprofen (e.g., Nurofen)
Mechanism	Analgesic and antipyretic; inhibits pain signals and reduces fever.	Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID); reduces inflammation, pain, and fever.
Primary Uses	Fever, headaches, mild-to-moderate pain not caused by inflammation.	Pain caused by inflammation, such as muscle aches, menstrual cramps, and injuries.
Common Side Effects	Generally mild, such as nausea or stomach pain.	Can cause stomach irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Best For	Routine fever and pain management in children, including post-immunization fever.	Inflammation-related pain, such as sprains, dental pain, and arthritis.
Combination Use	Can be alternated with ibuprofen under medical advice for persistent fever or pain.	Can be alternated with paracetamol; not recommended to be taken at the same time.
Safety Concerns	Risk of severe liver damage with overdose. Generally safer for the stomach than NSAIDs.	Potential for stomach irritation, especially with long-term use. Processed by kidneys.

Potential Side Effects and When to Seek Medical Advice

While Calpol is generally well-tolerated at therapeutic amounts, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, both common and rare.

Common Side Effects:

Mild nausea
Stomach pain or discomfort
Loss of appetite

Rare but Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical help):

Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like a rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.
Liver Problems: Can manifest as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), pale stools, dark urine, or upper stomach pain. Overdose is a primary cause of liver failure.
Blood Disorders: Unexplained bleeding, bruising, or increased infections.
Kidney Damage: Associated with long-term, high-amount paracetamol use.

Overdose Symptoms: In case of a suspected overdose, contact a poison control center immediately, even if the person appears well. Early symptoms can be mild or absent, but liver damage can be delayed. Signs may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and excessive sweating.

Safe Storage and Handling

Proper storage is necessary to maintain the medication's effectiveness and safety, especially with liquid formulations.

Keep Out of Reach: Always store all medications, including Calpol, out of the sight and reach of children, ideally in a locked cupboard.
Follow Temperature Guidelines: Store below 25°C unless otherwise specified on the packaging.
Note Opened-Bottle Expiry: Liquid Calpol often needs to be discarded a certain period after opening, such as six months.
Dispose Safely: Return expired or unused medication to a pharmacy for proper disposal.

Conclusion: Safe and Effective Symptom Relief

Calpol, containing the active ingredient paracetamol, serves as a trusted and effective option for managing mild-to-moderate pain and fever, particularly in children. However, its safety is contingent on careful and accurate use. Parents and caregivers must adhere strictly to the administration instructions provided, whether the formulation is a liquid suspension, tablet, or suppository. Awareness of potential side effects, the risk of liver damage from overdose, and interactions with other medicines containing paracetamol is crucial for preventing harm. When used correctly and with respect for the recommended guidelines, Calpol remains an essential tool in any medicine cabinet. For any concerns or persistent symptoms, a healthcare professional should always be consulted for advice.

For more in-depth information about paracetamol, the NHS provides detailed guidelines on its uses and safety for adults and children.

Disclaimer: This article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Calpol is a brand name for medication containing the active ingredient paracetamol. In the U.S., paracetamol is called acetaminophen.

Calpol Infant Suspension is formulated for babies as young as 2 months. Administration must be based on the child's age and weight, and you should not exceed the recommended amount.

The correct administration depends on the child's age and weight. You should always use the measuring device provided with the liquid medicine and follow the instructions on the packaging. Adhere to the recommended frequency of administration.

If a child takes too much Calpol, it is a medical emergency, as an overdose can cause severe and potentially fatal liver damage. You must seek immediate medical attention, even if no symptoms are present.

It is generally not recommended to give both at the same time. However, a healthcare professional might suggest alternating between paracetamol and ibuprofen if symptoms persist. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist for specific advice.

When taken as directed, side effects are rare and usually mild, but can include nausea, stomach pain, or constipation. Allergic reactions and liver damage are rare but serious risks, particularly with overdose.

Yes, Calpol has an expiration date. Liquid suspensions often have a shorter shelf-life once opened. Always check the bottle and carton for the expiry date and storage instructions.