Same here, two children (2.5yo and 3wo), both exposed to Paracetamol in what I now hope were low enough concentrations. I'm very concerned, to say the least.
Aspirin is a much safer drug to give to kids, despite the bad press it has received. You only need to look at the actual data to be convinced that it should be prescribed over Paracetamol any day.
> The presence of salicylates in the blood or urine of Reye's syndrome patients has not been demonstrated, and no animal model of Reye's syndrome has been developed where aspirin causes the disease. It is clear from epidemiological data that the incidence of Reye's syndrome was decreasing well before warning labels were placed on aspirin products. Reye's syndrome disappeared from countries where aspirin was not used in children as well as from countries which continued to use aspirin in children.
This link with Reyes syndrom is about as valid as good old snake oil to treat ailments. Bad science was not invented just last year.
While uncommon, Aspirin can cause Reye syndrome in children, which can lead to death or cause permanent disability.
Paracetamol does not cause such harmful effects if used as directed. It definitely should be used as a first-line treatment (if needed) in case of fever or pain.
This article essentially argues that Paracetamol should be used sparingly, if necessary. Calpol (suspension of paracetamol for children) is used indiscriminately in the UK, with some parents seemingly attempting to use it as a chemical cosh when their children are in a bad mood - it does also appear to alter moods.
Oh, of course let's conduct a trial where we give aspirin to children and see what happens! I gather you'll be volunteering your own children? How nice of you!