OBJECTIVES: A lack of parental knowledge regarding the use of antipyretics can cause serious health problems. The aim of this study was to analyze the factors that influence the giving of over the counter antipyretics antipyretics to children by parents in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia using convenience sampling. A self-administered survey and letter of consent were distributed to non-health care professional parents of children aged 0 to 12 years. The parents were asked to fill out the survey anonymously. The variables collected included socio-demographic data for children and parents, including age, gender, education, income, and knowledge regarding antipyretics. Additionally, an assessment was made of participant beliefs and thoughts regarding fever and its effects. Data was coded in Excel and descriptive and analytical tests conducted using SPSS software.

RESULTS: A total of 490 participants completed the questionnaire. The average age of the parents was 38.6 (±6.8) years. The average age of a family’s youngest child was 4.3 (±3.1) years. Most respondents were female (83.7%) and married (98.2%). About half (50.8%) of the participants had 3–5 children in their families. Approximately 60% considered normal body temperature as ≤37°C, while approximately 40% considered it as a fever. In the logistic regression, there was a significant association between parents giving antipyretics to children with a temperature ≥28°C and having a family with 6 or more children (OR=1.931; 95% CI=1.16-3.21).

CONCLUSIONS: It was clear from the results that some parents had an inadequate knowledge of the definition of fever, and this may affect their decision to give medication. Parents with more children were able to better identify fever and make a better decision. There is a need for education programs for new parents regarding how to take care of newborn babies.