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Can Meftal Be Given For Low Grade Fever?

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Posted on Fri, 26 Jun 2015
Question: Hi Given Meftal P 5 ml to my 18 month old son at temp. of 99 C , he has throat infection as well and cuffing, Last dose of Meftal was 10 hrs back 5 ml. Is it OK to give Meftal P 5 ml at low fever of 99 C ? His weight is around 12.50 kg, plz advise thanks
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain (47 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
I won't suggest you to give meftal for such low grade fever

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for the query

Ideally fever should be managed with tepid sponging till 100 F.Paracetamol suspension should be used for temperature from 100 to 102 F and meftal P for temperature more than 102 F.
The dose of mefenemic acid(meftal P) is 25 mg/kg/day in three divided dosage.The 5 ml of meftal contains 100 mg of mefenemic acid.So for 12.5 kg's baby 5 ml is adequate.
Paracetamol(crocin)is considered to be safest antipyratic and unnecessary use of meftal P should be avoided(because of it's side effects).
Although the temperature below 100 F should be treated with tepid sponging,if you want to use antipyartic for such low grade fever I would suggest you to give paracetamol.
I hope this helps.
I shall be glad to answer if you have any more query.
Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain (25 minutes later)
Thanks Dr. XXXXXXX for the insight and clarity,

However , now the dose has already been given about 2 hrs back and the fever seems to be in control however with coughing every 10 / 15 mins or so,

My Main concern is that since Meftal P is already given on low fever , can it have any adverse effect now ?
Low body temperature ?
Any signs to look out for or what needs to be monitored during the night as the baby is sleeping,

Kindly please advise, Thanks XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Just be watchful for any fall in temperature

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for the follow up

Usually single dose does not causes much harm and even if there is fall in temperature,the symptoms appears once temperature goes below 94 F which is very uncommon.
The repeated and prolonged use of mefenemic acid can cause damage to kidney.So it is better to avoid the habit of giving mefenemic acid when it is not indicated and a safer alternative is available.
So just be cautious regarding the use of medication in future.
Regards
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain

Pediatrician, Cardiology

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 2073 Questions

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Can Meftal Be Given For Low Grade Fever?

Brief Answer: I won't suggest you to give meftal for such low grade fever Detailed Answer: Hello Thanks for the query Ideally fever should be managed with tepid sponging till 100 F.Paracetamol suspension should be used for temperature from 100 to 102 F and meftal P for temperature more than 102 F. The dose of mefenemic acid(meftal P) is 25 mg/kg/day in three divided dosage.The 5 ml of meftal contains 100 mg of mefenemic acid.So for 12.5 kg's baby 5 ml is adequate. Paracetamol(crocin)is considered to be safest antipyratic and unnecessary use of meftal P should be avoided(because of it's side effects). Although the temperature below 100 F should be treated with tepid sponging,if you want to use antipyartic for such low grade fever I would suggest you to give paracetamol. I hope this helps. I shall be glad to answer if you have any more query. Regards