Medications that may cause fever in children

Fever may be a symptom of an allergic reaction to a medication, particularly if a skin rash or hives are also present. Many medications can trigger an allergic reaction and cause a fever. The medications most likely to cause a fever include:

• Antibiotics, such as penicillins, cephalosporins, or sulfonamides.
• Barbiturates, such as phenobarbital.
• Salicylates (aspirin), if an overdose is taken.

If a fever occurs following the start of a medication, call the health professional who prescribed it before giving the next dose. The medication may need to be stopped or changed or the dosage adjusted. An appointment may not be necessary. If the fever was caused by the medication, it usually will go away within 48 hours of stopping the medication.

If fever occurs after you give your child a nonprescription medication, do not give your child any more of the medication. Call your health professional to discuss the problem if you think your child needs this medication.