When to Use: Treatment of fever and pain.
Caution: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be found in many prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Read the labels to be sure your child is not getting it from 2 products. If you have questions, call us.
How to Use Dose Table: Find the child's weight in the top row of the dose table. Look below the correct weight for the dose based on the product you have.
| Child's weight (pounds) | 6-11 | 12-17 | 18-23 | 24-35 | 36-47 | 48-59 | 60-71 | 72-95 | 96+ | lbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liquid 160 mg/ 5 milliliters (mL) |
1.25 | 2.5 | 3.75 | 5 | 7.5 | 10 | 12.5 | 15 | 20 | mL |
| Chewable 80 mg tablets | - | - | 1½ |
2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 8 | tabs |
| Chewable 160 mg tablets | - | - | - | 1 | 1½ |
2 | 2½ |
3 | 4 | tabs |
| Adult 325 mg tablets | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | 1 | 1½ |
2 | tabs |
| Adult 500 mg tablets | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | 1 | tab |
Age Limits: Don't use under 12 weeks of age unless told by child's doctor. Reason: fever in the first 12 weeks of life needs to be seen now. If present, your baby needs a medical exam now. Exception: Fever starting within 24 hours of vaccines if child is 8 weeks of age or older. If under 6 years, don't give products with more than one ingredient in them (FDA recommendation 2008).
Measuring Dose: Syringes and droppers are more accurate than teaspoons. If possible, use the syringe or dropper that comes with the medicine. If not, you can get a med syringe at drug stores. If you use a teaspoon, it should be a measuring spoon. Reason: regular spoons are not reliable. Keep in mind 1 level teaspoon equals 5 mL and that ½ teaspoon equals 2.5 mL.
How Often: Repeat every 4-6 hours as needed. Don't give more than 5 times a day.
Brand Names: Tylenol, Feverall (suppositories), generic acetaminophen
Meltaways: Tabs that dissolve come in 80 mg and 160 mg (jr. strength)
Suppositories: Come in 80, 120, 325 and 650 mg. The rectal dose is the same as the dose given by mouth.
Extended-Release: Do not use 650 mg oral products in children.
Use in Countries Outside the U.S.: Dose tables are based on U.S. products. Concentrations may vary in countries outside the U.S. Always check the concentration is the same before using this dose table.