This article has been professionally reviewed by Pharmacist Ngo Thi Thu Thuy and Pharmacist Nguyen Hoang Phuong Khanh - Department of Pharmacy, Vinmec Central Park International Hospital.
Most patients with dengue fever self-medicate with common antipyretics when needed. However, the choice of medication should be based on medical guidance to prevent adverse effects on treatment.
1. What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes carrying the Dengue virus. Symptoms typically appear 4–7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can last from 5 to 7 days.
The severity of dengue symptoms varies among individuals. Some experience mild illness, while others develop severe complications. Common symptoms include: High fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, skin rash. In severe cases, patients may suffer from: Severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, nosebleeds or seizures…
These complications can be life-threatening. Therefore, individuals experiencing such symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
2. How is Dengue Fever Treated?
There is no specific cure for dengue fever. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, such as fever and muscle pain, while supporting the patient's overall condition until recovery. Only severe cases require hospitalization, whereas mild cases can be managed at home with proper rest and care. However, patients should not be complacent and must follow up with their healthcare provider to prevent severe complications.
3. Which Antipyretics Can Be Used for Dengue Fever?
To reduce fever, headache, and body aches, Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is recommended. This over-the-counter medication is generally safe for all age groups (unless contraindicated) but must be used in the correct dosage as per the drug's instructions or a doctor's recommendation.
Overdosing can lead to acute liver failure and other serious complications. If fever persists or recurs after reaching the maximum allowable dose, patients must visit a medical facility for appropriate intervention.
For children, parents must be aware of the various formulations of Paracetamol (tablets, syrup, powders or rectal suppositories). When combining forms (e.g., oral syrup while awake and suppositories while asleep), ensure that the total daily dose does not exceed the maximum limit to prevent toxicity. To ensure safety, young children or those with persistent high fever should be examined by a doctor for appropriate medication guidance.
Read more: Types of Paracetamol Doses, Usage and Target Patients – Article professionally reviewed by Pharmacist, PhD. Phan Quynh Lan, Director of Pharmacy, Vinmec Health System – Head of Pharmacy Department, Vinmec Times City International Hospital.
4. Which Antipyretics Should Be Avoided in Dengue Fever?
Certain antipyretics, such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen (as well as other NSAIDs), should not be used for fever reduction in dengue fever due to the risk of bleeding complications.
- Aspirin
Aspirin is a mild to moderate pain reliever and fever reducer but should not be used in dengue fever. It functions as an antiplatelet agent, preventing blood clot formation, which increases the risk of severe bleeding in dengue patients. Potential complications include: Gastrointestinal bleeding, hematemesis (vomiting blood), subcutaneous hemorrhage.
Aspirin should also not be used to reduce fever or relieve pain in children under 18 years old, especially those who have or are recovering from viral infections such as chickenpox or influenza. These illnesses share similar symptoms with dengue fever, such as high fever, fatigue, and body aches, which can lead to confusion in diagnosis. Incorrect use of Aspirin in such cases may cause Reye’s syndrome, a rare but severe condition affecting the brain and liver, leading to brain swelling and liver failure, which can be fatal or result in permanent brain damage.
- Ibuprofen and Other NSAIDs
Like Aspirin, Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Diclofenac and Meloxicam should be avoided in dengue fever. These medications: Inhibit platelet aggregation, increase the risk of bleeding and severe complications
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