Calpol Infant Strawberry Suspension 100ml

What Is Calpol Infant Suspension and How Does It Help?

When your baby is unwell — whether it's a fever after their first vaccinations or the misery of teething — you want something you can trust. Calpol infant suspension has been a go-to choice for parents across the UK for decades, and for good reason. This strawberry-flavoured liquid contains paracetamol 120mg per 5ml and is specifically formulated for babies and young children from 2 months of age. At just £3.80 for a 100ml bottle, it's an accessible, clinically recognised option for managing mild to moderate pain and fever at home.

Paracetamol is one of the most widely used medicines in the UK and is recommended by the NHS for managing fever and pain in children. Calpol Infant Suspension is sugar-free and colour-free, making it suitable for children with certain dietary sensitivities. You can find it alongside other trusted baby and toddler medicines at Cured Pharmacy.

How Does Calpol Infant Suspension Work?

Paracetamol — the active ingredient in Calpol Infant Suspension — works by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins in the central nervous system. Prostaglandins are chemical messengers that contribute to pain signalling and the raising of body temperature during illness. By reducing their production, paracetamol helps bring a fever down and eases discomfort.

• Blocks prostaglandin production in the brain, reducing fever
• Acts on pain pathways in the central nervous system to relieve mild to moderate pain
• Begins to take effect within 15–30 minutes of administration
• Effects typically last 4–6 hours per dose

It's worth noting that paracetamol does not have significant anti-inflammatory properties — so if inflammation is the primary concern, speak to your GP about whether an alternative is more appropriate for your child's age and condition.

Who Is Calpol Infant Suspension Suitable For?

This product is designed for infants and young children. It is not suitable for adults or older children who require a higher-strength formulation. Always check the packaging carefully before use.

• Babies aged 2–3 months — for post-vaccination fever only (maximum 2 doses)
• Babies and children aged 3 months to 6 years — for fever and mild to moderate pain
• Children who are sugar-free or colour-free diet requirements
• Children experiencing teething pain, cold symptoms, or post-immunisation discomfort

It is not suitable for babies under 2 months of age. If your child has liver or kidney problems, or if they are already taking other medicines containing paracetamol, consult a pharmacist or GP before use.

How Does Calpol Infant Suspension Compare to Calpol Six Plus?

How Should You Store Calpol Infant Suspension?

Store this product below 25°C. Do not refrigerate — cold temperatures can affect the consistency of the suspension. Keep the bottle tightly closed and well out of the reach and sight of children at all times. Once opened, use within the period stated on the packaging.

If your child is also experiencing cold or flu symptoms alongside their fever, you may find it helpful to browse our cold and flu range for additional supportive products suitable for the whole family. Always check age suitability before purchasing any additional medicines for young children.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Calpol Infant Suspension and What Is It Used For?

Calpol Infant Strawberry Suspension is an oral liquid medicine containing paracetamol 120mg per 5ml. It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain and to reduce fever (high temperature) in babies and young children aged 2 months to 6 years. Common reasons parents reach for it include teething discomfort, earache, sore throat associated with colds, headache, and fever following routine childhood vaccinations. The NHS recommends paracetamol as a first-line option for managing fever and pain in children when used at the correct dose.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Calpol Infant Suspension?

Before giving this medicine to your child, read the following carefully. There are situations where it should not be used, or where extra caution is needed.

Do not use if your child:

• Is under 2 months of age
• Is allergic to paracetamol or any other ingredient in the suspension
• Has severe liver or kidney disease
• Is already taking another medicine containing paracetamol

Speak to a pharmacist or GP before use if your child:

• Has liver or kidney problems
• Is underweight or malnourished
• Is taking any other prescribed or over-the-counter medicines
• Has a known allergy to any medicines

Known drug interactions:

• Other paracetamol-containing products (risk of overdose)
• Warfarin — regular use of paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant effect (not typically relevant in infants, but relevant for caregivers to note)
• Metoclopramide — may increase the rate of paracetamol absorption

How Should You Use Calpol Infant Suspension?

Always use the measuring syringe or spoon provided with the pack to ensure accurate dosing. Do not use a household teaspoon, as this may result in an incorrect dose being given.

1. Shake the bottle well before each use
2. Use the oral syringe or measuring device provided
3. Measure the correct dose for your child's age (see table below)
4. Administer the suspension directly into your child's mouth
5. Leave at least 4 hours between doses
6. Do not give more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period
7. Do not use for more than 3 days without seeking medical advice

If your child's symptoms do not improve after 3 days, or if they worsen at any point, stop use and consult your GP. For broader infant health support, you may also want to explore our first aid range for additional essentials to keep at home.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Calpol Infant Suspension?

Calpol Infant Suspension is generally very well tolerated when used as directed. Serious side effects are rare, but it's important to know what to look out for.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 children):

• Nausea
• Stomach discomfort

Less common or rare side effects:

• Skin rash or itching
• Swelling of the face, lips, or throat (signs of allergic reaction — seek emergency help immediately)
• Blood disorders (very rare — signs include unusual bruising or persistent sore throat)
• Liver damage (only in cases of overdose)

If you notice any signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or a widespread rash — stop giving the medicine and call 999 or go to A&E immediately. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.

How Should You Store Calpol Infant Suspension?

Correct storage helps maintain the safety and effectiveness of this medicine. Follow these guidelines carefully:

• Store below 25°C
• Do not refrigerate or freeze
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
• Store out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
• Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacist

If you're building a home medicine cabinet for your family, our pain relief collection includes a range of products suitable for different ages and needs. Always store all medicines safely and separately from food and drink.