New Study Challenges Long-Held Concerns Over Infant Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen Use

In New Zealand nearly 4,000 infants were randomized at birth to receive either paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever or pain during their first year.

The trial found no link between either drug and eczema or bronchiolitis in the first year.

Eczema occurred in about 16% of the paracetamol group versus 15% of the ibuprofen group.

Bronchiolitis affected about 5% of infants in both groups.

Serious adverse events were rare and none were attributed to the medications; results were published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health and this was the first randomized controlled trial on the question.