antipiretici

Antipiretici, also known as antipiretice or antipyretics, are medicines used to reduce fever and to relieve pain. They are commonly employed when fever causes discomfort, or as part of the management of infections and inflammatory conditions. They do not treat the underlying illness, but help lower body temperature and improve well-being.

Most antipiretics work by lowering the hypothalamic set-point for temperature, typically through inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) primarily acts centrally and has weak anti-inflammatory activity, while nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen provide both fever reduction and anti-inflammatory effects. Aspirin is another antipyretic and analgesic agent but is used less in children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome and has restrictions in pregnancy and certain cardiovascular conditions.

Common agents and notes:

- Paracetamol: widely used for adults and children; generally safe at recommended doses but can cause liver injury at high doses or with chronic alcohol use.

- Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs: effective for fever and pain with anti-inflammatory action; can irritate the stomach, affect kidney function, and may worsen certain heart or circulatory conditions; not advised in certain pregnancy stages and in individuals with ulcers or kidney disease.

- Aspirin: effective antipyretic and analgesic but associated with gastrointestinal bleeding risk and Reye’s syndrome in children and teenagers with viral illness; used selectively in adults for specific indications.

Dosing varies by age and weight; always follow product labeling and medical advice. In children, dosing is typically weight-based. Seek medical advice for high fever, persistent fever beyond a few days, or if there are concerning symptoms, dehydration, or if the patient is pregnant, elderly, or has chronic illnesses.