TY - JOUR T1 - Alternating acetaminophen and ibuprofen for pain in children JF - Canadian Family Physician JO - Can Fam Physician SP - 645 LP - 647 VL - 58 IS - 6 AU - Christine Smith AU - Ran D. Goldman Y1 - 2012/06/01 UR - http://www.cfp.ca/content/58/6/645.abstract N2 - Question Because pain is a very common condition in children, such as after musculoskeletal injuries, many parents ask whether they can alternate over-the-counter analgesics to treat their children’s pain. While some guidelines advise against this, it is common practice. Should alternating acetaminophen and ibuprofen be recommended for treating pain in children? Answer Children who have unresolved pain despite the use of either ibuprofen or acetaminophen should have their medication regimen reviewed to ensure they are receiving the medication at an adequate dose and interval. If monotherapy has failed, a short trial of an alternating regimen could be implemented. However, there is a lack of evidence for safety with long-term use of alternating ibuprofen and acetaminophen. ER -