Fever in Adults Treatment

Self-Care at Home

You can make the diagnosis of fever by taking your temperature with a thermometer. The best place in an adult is to put the thermometer in the mouth.

See page "How to take your temperature"

In general, a fever can be reduced with ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) or acetaminophen (Tyelenol). Both medications help control pain and fever. Alternating doses of each will also work and prevent accidental overdose. At times, a combination of both acetaminophen and ibuprofen will be needed to stop the fever.

• Ibuprofen comes in 200 mg tablets purchased over the counter at a drug store. You may take 1-2 tablets every 4 hours to decrease your temperature. Use the lowest possible dose.
  • Side effects of ibuprofen include nausea and vomiting, which may be prevented if the medication is taken with food. Rare side effects include diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, and stomach pain. People with stomach ulcers or kidney disease, pregnant women, and those with an aspirin allergy should avoid ibuprofen.
• Acetaminophen also prevents a fever from occurring. It comes in 325 mg tablets (preferred dose) or 500 mg tablets over the counter. Again, 1-2 tablets every 4 hours should be used to eliminate a fever.
  • Side effects are rare, but some people are allergic to the medication. Extremely large doses (overdose) may cause liver failure. Therefore, people with liver disease and chronic alcohol users should avoid this medication.
  • Common brand names of acetaminophen are Aspirin Free Anacin, and Tylenol. Read the product label for specific ingredients described as acetaminophen.

A fever can cause you to become very dehydrated. See page "Dehydration in Adults"