when to give baby tylenol?

ta78 · September 2013

I haven't been on in awhile, but had a question about fevers. DD is 8 months old and has come down w a fever.. not sure if she is sick or maybe will break a tooth soon, but I am wondering at what point should I give her tylenol? Right now it is 100.4 and I'm not sure if I should let it run or give her something to bring it down. She is a little fussy, but it doesn't seem to be bothering her as much as I'd expect.

JeffandLeslie · September 2013

If she isn't fussy, I'd let her be - but I tend to avoid medication whenever possible, so take that for what it's worth.

As I understand it, fevers are part of the body's way of getting rid of stuff, so if the fever itself isn't bothering her or causing other problems, I'd probably wait so the fever could do its work...

ETA: typo

misswendyk · September 2013

My boys always got a low grade fever when teething (she is about that age) so yes I did give them Tylenol. I would usually give it before a nap or before bed because I could usually distract them during the day and they were fine. But yes fussy and fever I gave Tylenol.

kcisthebombdotcom · September 2013

You shouldn't treat a fever that low. I would let it run its course.

Allycat11 · September 2013

JeffandLeslie said:

If she isn't fussy, I'd let her be - but I tend to avoid medication whenever possible, so take that for what it's worth.

As I understand it, fevers are part of the body's way of getting rid of stuff, so if the fever itself isn't bothering her or causing other problems, I'd probably wait so the fever could do its work...

ETA: typo

These are my thoughts as well.

lightgetsin · September 2013

I am the opposite end of the spectrum and give Tylenol or Motrin for anything over 100. Mainly for their comfort. If it was me with a fever, I would take something to feel better so why wouldn't I do the same for my kids?