Q: My 22-month-old baby still has a fever after getting IV fluids. Can I give medication right away?
Updated: Sep 7
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 22-month-old baby, who weighs 12 kg, is still running a fever. We went to the pediatrician and my baby received IV fluids, but the temperature isn't going down. Can I give a fever reducer right away? I have Dexibuprofen (Mexibuprofen) at home. Or do I need to wait two hours after the IV?
Answer:
It is completely understandable to be worried when your baby's fever persists even after receiving an IV treatment.
Verify the Contents of the IV
First, you need to check if the IV included a fever-reducing medication. If it was a fever-reducing IV, you need to know which specific medication was used. If it was not an ibuprofen-based IV, you can give Dexibuprofen right away.
If the IV was just regular hydration fluids (without fever medication), giving a fever reducer is a separate treatment. In this case, if your child is uncomfortable, you can give Dexibuprofen immediately—you do not need to wait two hours.
Dexibuprofen Dosage (for a 12 kg child)
Please check the concentration on the medicine bottle label (it is typically 12 mg/mL for this type of syrup).
For a 12 kg child, the correct dose is 60–84 mg, which equals 5–7 mL.
Administer every 6–8 hours, up to a maximum of 4 times a day.
Make sure to measure the dose accurately using an enclosed dosing syringe or measuring cup.
When to Verify with the Hospital
If a fever reducer was already given via IV or prescribed during your visit, please call the clinic that treated your child to ensure you are not duplicating the medication.
If only hydration fluids were given and no fever reducer was administered, you can use the Dexibuprofen immediately.
Warning Signs (Seek immediate in-person medical care if you notice any of these):
Difficulty breathing or bluish lips.
No urination for more than 8 hours.
The child is extremely lethargic and cannot make eye contact.
The fever persists for more than 3 days despite taking fever reducers.
Please monitor your child's condition closely and consult your pediatrician again if the symptoms persist or worsen.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
