Bibliographic information
GuidelineWHO consolidated guidelines for the management of common childhood illness: management of sickle-cell disease in children and adolescents
Year of Publication2026
Issuing InstitutionWorld Health Organization
Recommendation
New
In children and adolescents (aged 0–19 years) with sickle-cell disease (SCD), the use of opioids alone is suggested for acute pain management rather than paracetamol plus opioids.
Recommended in favor
Conditional
Certainty of evidence
Very low
Notes and Remarks
- This recommendation is based on the evidence from studies using IV paracetamol in combination with opioids at the initiation of treatment, which did not demonstrate additional benefit compared to opioids alone.
- Health care providers should engage in shared decision-making with children, adolescents and their caregivers regarding the use of paracetamol versus opioids for managing pain at home, considering individual preferences, prior experiences and potential risks.