The role of ibuprofen in managing acute paediatric pain and fever post-vaccination
Published: 28 January 2025
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Overview
- Pain and discomfort during vaccination are clinical concerns for individuals of all ages receiving injections.1
- Failing to manage pain during vaccination can contribute to vaccine hesitancy and potentially affect future health-seeking behaviours and healthcare choices.1
- Recent updates to the Australian Immunisation Handbook now include ibuprofen for the relief of post-vaccination pain and fever.2
- This addition provides a unique opportunity to reinforce the clinical benefits of ibuprofen as a first-line management option in children's post-vaccination pain and fever.
Acute pain and fever are common and distressing symptoms for children, particularly following vaccinations.1 For general practitioners (GPs), helping caregivers provide effective relief of these effects is a key component of immunisation consultations.3 Traditionally, paracetamol has been a treatment option for such occasions.4,5 However, recent updates to the Australian Immunisation Handbook now also include ibuprofen for the relief of post-vaccination pain and fever.2 This change provides a unique opportunity to reinforce the clinical benefits of ibuprofen as a first-line option for the relief of acute pain and fever in children.
