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Side effects of paracetamol for children

As long as you do not give your child more than the maximum recommended dose, paracetamol rarely causes side effects.

If you're worried about a side effect or notice anything unusual, talk to your pharmacist or GP.

Serious side effects

Urgent advice: Stop giving your child paracetamol and contact a GP straight away if your child has:

  • pale skin, unexpected bleeding and bruising, sore throat, fever and infections - these can be signs of a blood disorder
  • yellow skin or eyes - this can be a sign of liver problems

Serious allergic reaction

A serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to paracetamol is rare.

Emergency action required: Call 112 or 999 or take your child to an emergency department (ED) immediately if they show signs of a serious allergic reaction such as:

  • a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
  • wheezing
  • tightness in their chest or throat
  • difficulty breathing or talking
  • swelling to their mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat

Report side effects

You can report any suspected side effects to the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA): report an issue - hpra.ie