Can I give Calpol and Nurofen together for a stubborn fever?

You can alternate paracetamol (Calpol) and ibuprofen (Nurofen) for a stubborn fever using a staggered schedule — never exceed the maximum daily dose of either. See our dose calculator for a weight-based, personalised 24-hour schedule.

When should I worry about my baby's fever?

Contact your doctor immediately if your baby is under 3 months old with any fever, if the fever persists beyond 48 hours, or if your child seems unusually drowsy, has a rash, or is struggling to breathe.

Managing Fevers Safely:
Calpol & Nurofen Dose Calculator

A fever is one of the most common reasons parents reach out to us, and it’s rarely a cause for panic, it’s usually a sign your child’s immune system is doing exactly what it should. This tool gives you a quick, weight-based guide to dosing Calpol (paracetamol) and Nurofen (ibuprofen), plus a personalised 24-hour schedule if you need to alternate between the two for a stubborn fever. As always, this is general guidance, if you’re ever unsure, our team at The Baby Clinic is just a call away.

Managing Fevers Safely — Dose Calculator

Move the slider to your child's weight for an instant dose guide.

Child's weight 10 kg

3 kg25 kg

or enter exactly: kg

Calpol

Paracetamol

5.0 ml

Every 4 hours, as needed

Nurofen

Ibuprofen

3.3 ml

Every 8 hours, as needed

↻

High or stubborn fever? See a sample alternating schedule

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24-hour schedule

First dose at:

Please read before dosing

This tool mirrors the standard weight-based guide for infant paracetamol and ibuprofen suspensions. Always check the concentration and dosing chart on your specific product's label before giving a dose — strengths can differ between brands.
Not for babies under 3 months old. A fever in a baby under 3 months needs urgent medical attention — don't dose at home, call your doctor.
Never exceed the maximum daily dose stated on the product packaging, even when alternating medicines.
If fever persists beyond 48 hours, your child seems unusually drowsy, has a rash, is struggling to breathe, or you're at all worried — contact your doctor or nearest emergency room immediately.
This calculator offers general guidance only and does not replace advice from your doctor, pharmacist, or the product insert.

Managing Fevers Safely: Calpol & Nurofen Dose Calculator

Managing Fevers Safely:
Calpol & Nurofen Dose Calculator