Calpol

Calpol is children's paracetamol for pain and fever, from teething and sore throats to colds, flu and a temperature after vaccinations. Choose by your child's age. Calpol Infant (120mg/5ml) is from 2 months, and also comes sugar free. Calpol Six Plus Sugar Free (250mg/5ml) is a stronger liquid for children aged 6 and over. Calpol Six Plus Fastmelts are tablets that melt in the mouth, also from 6 years. The range also includes drug-free extras such as the Calpol Saline Nasal Spray and the Soothe & Care Vapour Plug.

Which Calpol does my child need?

Calpol Infant (120mg/5ml): from 2 months. Between 2 and 3 months it is only for a temperature after vaccinations.
Calpol Six Plus (250mg/5ml): for children aged 6 and over. It is more than twice as strong as Calpol Infant, so never swap one for the other.
Calpol Six Plus Fastmelts: melt-in-the-mouth tablets from 6 years. They contain aspartame, so they are not suitable for children with phenylketonuria (PKU).

Frequently asked questions

What age can babies have Calpol?

Calpol Infant can be given from 2 months for a temperature after vaccinations, with no more than 2 doses. From 3 months it can be used for pain and fever generally, at the dose for your baby's age on the pack. Don't give it to a baby who weighs less than 4kg without medical advice. If a baby under 3 months has a temperature that isn't from a vaccination, speak to your doctor.

How often can I give Calpol?

Leave at least 4 hours between doses, and give no more than 4 doses in 24 hours. Always use the measuring device in the pack and the dose for your child's age. If your child still needs it after 3 days, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Can I give Calpol with other medicines?

Never give Calpol with any other medicine that contains paracetamol, including some cold and flu remedies. Paracetamol and children's ibuprofen can sometimes be used for the same illness, but check the ages, doses and timing with your pharmacist first.

Is there a sugar-free Calpol?

Yes. Calpol Infant comes in both a standard and a sugar-free version, and Calpol Six Plus is sugar free.

When should I get medical help?

Get medical advice straight away if you think your child has had too much, even if they seem well. Contact your doctor if a fever lasts more than 3 days or your child seems very unwell, isn't feeding or drinking, is unusually drowsy, or has a rash that doesn't fade when pressed.

Reviewed by Paul O'Hea, MPSI (PSI reg. 8772). Last reviewed October 2026. Always read the patient information leaflet. If you have any questions, you can submit them through the chat on our website and ask for a pharmacist to review.