What is the time difference between Calpol (Paracetamol) and Ibuprofen?

October 14, 2025 •

5 min read

Pharmacology research shows that paracetamol (the active ingredient in Calpol) and ibuprofen work differently and can be alternated to provide more effective relief for persistent fever or pain. When considering what is the time difference between Calpol and ibuprofen, the key is not a single interval, but rather understanding the independent dosing schedules for each medication.

Quick Summary

Calpol (paracetamol) and ibuprofen have different dosing frequencies, with paracetamol typically given every 4-6 hours and ibuprofen every 6-8 hours. Understanding these separate schedules is essential for safe administration. While they can be alternated, it is crucial to record dosage times to avoid exceeding the daily maximum for either drug.

Key Points

Dosing Intervals are Different: Calpol (paracetamol) is typically given every 4-6 hours, while ibuprofen is typically given every 6-8 hours.
Alternating requires careful timing: If alternating, stagger doses to provide continuous relief without exceeding daily maximums for either medication.
Calpol (Paracetamol) and Ibuprofen are not interchangeable: They work through different mechanisms; Calpol is an analgesic and antipyretic, while ibuprofen is also an anti-inflammatory.
Alternating is not always necessary for fever: Some guidelines suggest sticking to one medicine for fever unless it persists, but it may be more beneficial for pain relief in certain situations.
Record all doses meticulously: To help prevent accidental overdose, keep a written record of which medication was given and when.
Always check contraindications: Do not give ibuprofen to children with asthma, chickenpox, or certain kidney conditions without medical advice.
Consult a professional for prolonged illness: If a fever or pain lasts more than 2-3 days, seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
Always use the provided measuring device: Never use a kitchen teaspoon, as it can lead to inaccurate and potentially dangerous doses.

Understanding the Dosages and Actions of Calpol and Ibuprofen

When a child is unwell with a fever or pain, parents often turn to over-the-counter medications like Calpol and ibuprofen. Calpol is a brand name for paracetamol in the UK, while ibuprofen is found in brands like Nurofen and Advil. These two medications are widely used and can be safely alternated, but they have distinct dosing requirements and work in different ways. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective and safe administration, particularly to avoid overdosing.

Calpol (Paracetamol) Dosing

Paracetamol is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). Its mechanism of action is primarily in the central nervous system, helping to reduce pain signals and reset the body's temperature. It is generally considered gentle on the stomach and is often the first-line treatment for mild to moderate pain and fever.

For children, the dose is determined by their age and weight, and it is critical to follow the instructions on the package or from a healthcare professional. The standard interval for paracetamol dosing is typically every 4 to 6 hours. The maximum daily dose for paracetamol should not be exceeded within a 24-hour period. Many product packages have a dosing chart, but weight-based dosing is considered the most accurate method.

Dosing for children The specific amount of Calpol (paracetamol) given depends on the child's age and weight, and it is important to consult the product packaging or a healthcare professional for accurate guidance.

Ibuprofen Dosing

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting prostaglandins, which are compounds that contribute to inflammation, pain, and fever. This makes it particularly effective for pain associated with inflammation, such as teething, earaches, and sprains.

Like paracetamol, ibuprofen dosage is weight-dependent, and the medication should not be given to infants under 3 months old or weighing less than 6kg without medical advice. A key distinction from paracetamol is the dosing interval.

The recommended frequency for ibuprofen is typically every 6 to 8 hours.
The maximum daily dose of ibuprofen should not be exceeded within a 24-hour period.
It is best to give ibuprofen with or after food to minimize the risk of stomach upset.
Special caution is needed for children with asthma or chickenpox, as ibuprofen can cause adverse reactions.

Can you alternate Calpol and ibuprofen?

Yes, it is possible to alternate Calpol and ibuprofen, but there are important considerations. This approach is not always necessary, especially for fever alone, as studies have shown no significant advantage over sticking to one medication in some cases. However, it can be useful if a fever or pain persists or returns before the next dose of the initial medicine is due.

When alternating, the medications are typically spaced a few hours apart, creating a staggered schedule. A key aspect of alternating is ensuring that the maximum daily dose for each medication is not exceeded. This requires careful tracking of when each dose is given.

Comparison of Calpol (Paracetamol) and Ibuprofen


Feature	Calpol (Paracetamol)	Ibuprofen
Drug Type	Analgesic & Antipyretic	NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug)
Primary Action	Blocks pain signals and reduces fever in the central nervous system	Reduces pain, fever, and inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandins
Effectiveness	Effective for mild-to-moderate pain and fever. Generally considered gentle on the stomach.	Effective for pain, fever, and inflammation. Can be particularly useful for inflammatory pain.
Dosing Interval	Typically every 4 to 6 hours	Typically every 6 to 8 hours
Maximum Doses (24hr)	Maximum daily dose should not be exceeded	Maximum daily dose should not be exceeded
Administration Tip	Can be taken with or without food in most cases.	Best taken with or after food to help prevent stomach upset.
Considerations	May be a preferred option for children with certain pre-existing conditions like kidney issues, under medical guidance.	Should be used with caution in children with asthma or certain medical conditions. Not for children with chickenpox unless advised by a doctor.

Potential Risks of Alternating

While alternating medications can be effective, it carries the risk of confusion and accidental overdose, which is why accurate record-keeping is vital. Overdosing on paracetamol can cause serious liver damage, while excessive ibuprofen can lead to kidney problems and stomach irritation. Both are safe at recommended doses, but the risk of adverse effects increases with misuse.

For most children, monotherapy (using just one medication) is sufficient for managing fever and discomfort. The decision to alternate should not be taken lightly and is best done under the supervision of a healthcare professional, especially if the illness is prolonged or severe. The focus should always be on relieving the child's discomfort, not simply on normalizing their temperature.

Medical Guidelines

Different health authorities offer varying advice on alternating. Some, like the NHS, recommend against routine alternation for fever unless advised by a healthcare professional. In contrast, some pediatric specialists suggest it can be done carefully in cases of persistent pain or fever, provided dosages and timings are strictly managed. Always check local guidelines and consult a doctor or pharmacist for specific advice for your child.

Conclusion: The Importance of Safe and Informed Practice

There is no single set time difference between giving Calpol and ibuprofen; rather, each medication has its own recommended dosing interval. Calpol is typically given every 4-6 hours, and ibuprofen every 6-8 hours. While alternating them is possible and may provide more continuous relief for some children, it is not always necessary and carries a higher risk of dosing errors if not managed carefully. The safest practice is often to use one medication at a time, resorting to alternating only if one alone proves insufficient and after consulting with a healthcare professional. Always track the time and dose of each medication to help ensure your child's safety.

Final Thoughts on Medication Management

As with any medication, the right dose and timing are critical. For a child's health, ensuring proper hydration and monitoring their overall well-being is often as important as the medication itself. If a fever or pain persists, or if you have any doubts, seeking professional medical advice is the most responsible course of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the active ingredients do not interact harmfully, medical advice generally recommends against giving Calpol (paracetamol) and ibuprofen at the exact same time, especially for children. The potential for confusing the dosing schedule and accidental overdose is a significant risk.

For an alternating schedule, you can stagger the medications. For example, you might give a dose of Calpol, and then a few hours later, a dose of ibuprofen, ensuring that the appropriate time interval for each medication is respected before the next dose of that same medication is given. Careful record-keeping is essential.

For most fevers, using just one medication is sufficient. Alternating is typically considered when a child's pain or fever is not well-controlled by a single medication alone, and it should be done with care to avoid dosing errors.

Both Calpol (paracetamol) and ibuprofen are effective at reducing fever. Some studies suggest that ibuprofen may be slightly more effective at reducing fever in the short term, but overall efficacy is comparable. The best choice depends on the child's specific condition and any contraindications, and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

As an NSAID, ibuprofen is more effective at targeting inflammation-related pain, such as from teething, earaches, or sprains. Calpol can still relieve pain but does not have the same anti-inflammatory effect.

You should consult a healthcare professional before alternating medications if your child has an existing medical condition (e.g., asthma, kidney issues), if their fever or pain persists for more than 48-72 hours, or if you are unsure about dosing.

To prevent an overdose, always keep a written record of the time, date, and dose of each medication given. Use the measuring device provided with the medicine to ensure accuracy.

Ibuprofen is not generally recommended for children under 3 months old or weighing less than 6kg without consulting a doctor. Always check the product label and consult a doctor, especially for infants under 6 months.