The antipyretics that reduce fever are usually medicines that treat fever in a symptomatic way, without acting on its origin.

Most antipyretics are analgesic and can also be anti-inflammatory. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, are used in cases of inflammation and hemorrhoids.

The best known antipyretic drugs are: acetylsalicylic acid (ASS) or aspirin, paracetamol (also Acetaminophen), ibuprofen and metamizol (also Dipirona).

Using wet cloths with cold water on the patient’s body or warm water baths are an antipyretic measure in which no medication is used. These physical measures in isolation are only effective for a very short time.

Acetaminophen, also known as acetaminophen or acetaminophen, is a drug with analgesic and antipyretic properties used essentially to treat fever and mild to moderate pain.

Fever, a temporary rise in body temperature above normal levels, is the body’s physiological response to various aggressions, primarily infections. While in many cases it serves a defensive function, activating the immune system, it can cause significant discomfort and, in certain scenarios, pose a health risk. It is in this context that antipyretics emerge as fundamental therapeutic tools.

Defining the Concept of Antipyretics:

Essentially, medications that have the ability to lower elevated body temperature are called antipyretics. It is important to understand that these drugs, for the most part, act symptomatically. That is, they relieve the symptom of fever without directly addressing its underlying cause. Therefore, while an antipyretic can reduce the fever associated with a bacterial infection, it will not act on the bacteria itself.

Mechanisms of Action of Antipyretics:

Most antipyretics exert their effect by inhibiting prostaglandin production in the brain. Prostaglandins are substances that act as mediators in various physiological processes, including the regulation of body temperature. By blocking their synthesis, antipyretics help restore the thermoregulatory set point in the hypothalamus, the body’s temperature control center.

Beyond Fever: Additional Properties:

It is important to note that many antipyretics have analgesic properties, meaning they are also capable of relieving pain. This dual action makes them useful medications for treating conditions that present with both fever and pain, such as colds, flu, or headaches. Additionally, some antipyretics, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), also have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in treating inflammatory processes.

Common Examples of Antipyretics:

Within the broad spectrum of medications with antipyretic action, some are particularly well-known and commonly used. These include:

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or aspirin: This drug, in addition to its antipyretic effect, has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its use in children and adolescents has declined due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen): Paracetamol is a widely used antipyretic and analgesic, considered safe at recommended doses. It is a common choice for treating fever in children.

Ibuprofen: This NSAID not only acts as an antipyretic but also has potent anti-inflammatory effects. It is used for a variety of conditions involving fever, pain, and inflammation.

Metamizole (also known as dipyrone): Metamizole is another effective antipyretic and analgesic, although its use varies by region due to concerns about potential side effects. Non-Pharmacological Antipyretic Measures:

It is important to mention that there are non-pharmacological strategies that can complement or, in some cases, be sufficient to reduce mild fever. A common measure is applying warm (not cold) wet washcloths to the patient’s forehead, armpits, and groin. Warm baths can also be helpful. However, it is crucial to understand that these physical measures, on their own, often have a transient and limited antipyretic effect.

Paracetamol in Detail:

Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, deserves special mention due to its widespread use as an antipyretic. This drug stands out for its analgesic properties and its ability to effectively reduce fever. It is a common choice for relieving discomfort associated with fever in a variety of situations, from mild infections to post-vaccination reactions. The safety of paracetamol at therapeutic doses makes it the antipyretic of choice for many healthcare professionals. Important Considerations Regarding the Use of Antipyretics:

While antipyretics are valuable tools, it is essential to use them responsibly and under the supervision of a healthcare professional, especially in children and people with preexisting medical conditions. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended doses and be alert for potential side effects. The indiscriminate use of antipyretics can mask important symptoms and delay the diagnosis of the underlying cause of the fever.

In Summary:

Antipyretics are medications designed to reduce fever, a common symptom associated with various medical conditions. They also work primarily by decreasing the production of prostaglandins in the brain.

While they relieve the symptom of fever, they generally do not address the underlying cause. There are several types of antipyretics, with paracetamol and ibuprofen being some of the most commonly used. In addition to medications, physical measures can help reduce fever, although their antipyretic effect is often limited.

It is essential to use antipyretics responsibly and consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the fever and the appropriate treatment.

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