Why-Supp-Voren-Is-No-Longer-Safe-for-Children-With-Flu Alpro Pharmacy

Why Supp Voren Is No Longer Safe for Children With Flu

💬 A Heartfelt Note to Parents

If your child has the flu right now, I know how worried you must feel. You’ve given paracetamol, tried cool sponges, and whispered every comforting word you know but the fever just won’t break. So maybe, out of love and desperation, you reach for Supp Voren, something that’s worked before. As a pharmacist who works closely with parents and caregivers, I want to share something important, gently but clearly:

“Supp Voren is no longer recommended for children with influenza. It can sometimes cause serious complications.”

💊 What Is Supp Voren?

Supp Voren is a rectal suppository containing diclofenac sodium, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It’s used to relieve fever and pain especially in children who can’t take oral medicine due to vomiting or refusal. It works fast, which is why many parents trust it. But new research has shown that in some cases, fast relief can come at a cost.

🚨 Why It’s No Longer Safe especially for Flu

When children with viral infections like influenza take NSAIDs such as diclofenac, studies and real-life reports have revealed serious complications, including:

  • Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
  • Myositis (muscle pain or weakness)
  • Acute Kidney Injury, especially in dehydrated children 

These aren’t just rare international reports; they've been seen by doctors right here in Malaysia. Emergency physicians have publicly warned against using Supp Voren for flu because of these risks. So, while Supp Voren still has medical uses, flu is not one of them anymore.

🤔 “But I’ve Used It Before — Why the Change?”

For years, Supp Voren was prescribed for pain, post-surgery recovery, and stubborn fevers. It helped many children safely. But recent evidence shows that during viral infections, NSAIDs can interfere with the immune system, worsening inflammation in the brain, muscles, and kidneys. In short, what once seemed harmless can now increase risk. According to Malaysia’s National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA), Supp Voren should not be used if your child:

  • Is under 12 months old 
  • Has rectal inflammation 
  • Has stomach ulcers or bleeding 
  • Has ashtma or skin reactions to NSAIDs
  • Has allergy to Diclofenac
  • Has viral infections like influenza 

You can read more on NPRA’s official site: npra.gov.my.

🌡️ What You Should Do Instead

When your child has the flu, the focus isn’t on “breaking” the fever at all costs, it's on keeping them comfortable, hydrated, and safe while their body fights the virus.

Here’s how:

✅ 1. Use Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

Give every 4-6 hours as needed 

  • Don't exceed the maximum daily dose 
  • Give every 4-6 hours as needed 
  • Always check the label strength before giving 

💧 2. Keep Fluids Flowing

  • Offer water, coconut water, or oral rehydration solution (ORS) 
  • Give small sips often, especially if they're vomiting 

🛏️ 3. Comfort and Rest

  • Use room-temperature baths (never cold water) 
  • Dress them lightly and allow plenty of rest 
  • Offer hugs and reassurance, emotional comfort matters too 

🌤️ 4. Watch Their Behaviour

A child who’s drinking, smiling, and alert even with fever is usually managing well. But if your child is weak, not drinking, or unusually sleepy, it’s time to seek help. Remember: fever isn’t the enemy, it's a sign your child’s immune system is working.

🩺 When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical attention if your child:

  • Has a fever lasting over 3-5 days
  • Is very drowsy, irritable, or weak
  • Refuses fluids or shows signs of dehydration
  • Has breathing difficulties, seizures, or a sudden rash 

❤️ A Final Word of Care

I know how hard it is when your child is sick. Every parent wants to help their child feel better as soon as possible. You’re doing your best and that love is powerful. This new information about Supp Voren isn’t meant to make you feel guilty for past use. It’s meant to give you confidence for future choices. Supp Voren still has its place but not during flu or viral fevers. In those times, the safest path is paracetamol, hydration, rest, and careful monitoring. 

When you choose wisely, you’re not just managing a fever, you're protecting your child’s future health. Sometimes, the best medicine isn’t what’s in the box. It’s you, your care, your calm, and your courage. 💗

🧠 Quick FAQs

1️⃣ Can I still use Supp Voren if paracetamol doesn’t help?
 No. If fever persists, consult a doctor. Avoid Supp Voren for viral infections.

2️⃣ Is ibuprofen safer?
 Not during the flu. It’s also an NSAID and carries similar risks.

3️⃣ What if my child already used Supp Voren recently?
 Don’t panic, one dose is unlikely to harm. Just avoid further use during the flu.

4️⃣ Why do hospitals still use it?
 Because it’s safe for non-viral pain, like post-surgery recovery.

5️⃣ How else can I soothe a fever?
 Encourage rest, give fluids, and use paracetamol. Skip cold baths or alcohol rubs. If fever persists, consult a doctor. 

6️⃣ Where can I find more information?
 Check the NPRA website or your local healthcare provider for reliable guidance.

🌷 In Conclusion

Parenting a sick child is one of the hardest jobs in the world. But knowledge is power and love is the best medicine. Let’s keep choosing both. Because when science and compassion work hand in hand, our children heal safer, faster, and stronger. 💕

 

Written by: 
Candace the Pharmacist 
Pharmacist Candace Low Yeng Ying, Maternal & Child Specialist Pharmacist, Alpro Pharmacy

💛 Alpro MamaBe – Malaysia’s Trusted Pharmacy for Mom & Baby Health in the First 1000 Days

 

APA Citation 

National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency. (2023, May). Off-label use of diclofenac suppositories to treat fever in children: Potential risk of acute necrotising encephalopathy of childhood (ANEC). https://www.npra.gov.my/index.php/en/component/content/article/449-english/safety-alerts-main/safety-alerts-2023/1527481-off-label-use-of-diclofenac-suppositories-to-treat-fever-in-children-potential-risk-of-acute-necrotising-encephalopathy-of-childhood-anec.html NPRA

Misurac, J. R., Andreoli, S. P., Leiser, J. D., Nailescu, C., Wilson, A. C., Knoderer, C. A. (2013, February 12). Common anti-fever medications raise the risk of kidney injury in children. Indiana University Medicine News. https://medicine.iu.edu/news/2013/02/1722 medicine.iu.edu

Fazal, A., Reinhart, K., Huang, S., Kniss, K., Olson, S. M., Dugan, V. G., … Garg, S. (2025, February 27). Reports of encephalopathy among children with influenza-associated mortality — United States, 2010–11 through 2024–25 influenza seasons. MMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 74(6), 91–95. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7406

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