👶
🏥 Gotokuji Orthopedic Clinic / Patient Guide

Pediatric Pain Medication Guide

Choosing the right pain reliever when your child is injured

Have you ever wondered which pain reliever to give when your child gets hurt?
Loxonin (loxoprofen), commonly used by adults, must not be given to children under 15.
Pain relievers safe for children include Calonal (acetaminophen) and Brufen (ibuprofen). It is important to choose based on the type of injury.

1
Loxonin is not safe for children

No clinical trials have been carried out in children, so its safety in those under 15 has not been established

2
There are two types of pain relievers

One type works in the brain to reduce pain signals; the other type reduces inflammation directly

3
The choice depends on whether there is swelling

When swelling is present, the anti-inflammatory type is more effective

🎈
The area is very swollen → Brufen
😣
Pain without swelling → Calonal
🤕
Sprain or bruise with swelling → Brufen
🌡️
Pain with fever → Calonal
🚫
Loxonin
Cannot be used in children under 15. Halving the dose does not make it acceptable either
💊
Calonal (Acetaminophen)
Places a relatively small burden on the stomach and kidneys, and is easy to use even for young children. However, its anti-inflammatory effect is weak, and it must not be used in children with a peptic ulcer, severe liver or kidney problems, or aspirin-induced asthma
💪
Brufen (Ibuprofen)
Has anti-inflammatory action and can help ease the pain of swollen injuries. It must not be used in children with a peptic ulcer or who have ever had an asthma attack triggered by a painkiller (aspirin-induced asthma). Take extra care when your child is dehydrated, as the burden on the kidneys increases
⚖️
How to Choose
Swelling present → Brufen. No swelling → Calonal. When in doubt, ask a doctor
😊

The correct dose based on your child's weight is essential

Pain relievers only ease symptoms. Relying on self-medication alone risks missing a hidden fracture or ligament injury. If you are concerned about the injury, have a doctor examine your child early.

⚠️

Do not give Loxonin to children.
Giving adult pain medication at a reduced dose is dangerous. Always use medications approved for children. Loxonin (loxoprofen) has not been established as safe for children under 15.

💡 Key Points for Your Child's Injury

  • If swelling is severe, see a doctor -- do not rely on pain medication alone
  • Never give adult medications to children
  • Follow the correct dose based on your child's weight
  • If pain persists or your child cannot bear weight, a fracture may be present. See a doctor promptly