ACETAMINOPHEN DOSAGE

Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) is a medication used to treat fever and mild to moderate pain. Like any medication, it is crucial to use the correct dosage to ensure optimal effectiveness with minimal side effects. The table provided below assists in determining the appropriate dosage for a child based on their weight. Typically, acetaminophen is administered in doses of 10 to 15 mg per kilogram of weight every 4 hours.

It’s important to note that the dosages are specified in milliliters (mL) rather than teaspoons. This choice is made because teaspoons are not precise enough for measuring medication. To ensure accurate dosages, consider obtaining a dosing syringe or another measurement device from your pharmacist.

Weight Age Dosage Acetaminophen
(lb) (kg)     drops
80 mg/mL
suspension
160 mg/ 5 mL
chewable
tablet 80 mg
chewable
tablet 160 mg
12-17 5-7 4-11 months 80 mg 1 mL 2.5 mL 1 1/2
18-23 8-10 12-23 months 120 mg 1.5 mL 3.75 mL 1 1/2  
24-35 11-15 2-3 years 160 mg 2 mL 5 mL 2 1
36-47 16-21 4-5 years 240 mg 3 mL 7.5 mL 3 1 1/2
48-59 22-26 6-8 years 320 mg 4 mL 10 mL 4 2
60-71 27-31 9-10 years 400 mg 5 mL 12.5 mL 5 2 1/2
72-95 32-43 11 years 480 mg 6 mL 15 mL 6 3
Name: Weight: Dosage:
Signature: Date:
This dosage is given every 4 hours, only as needed.
Do not give more than 5 doses in a 24 hour-period
Acetaminophen may be taken with or without food.