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Acetaminophen Dosage Table

Acetaminophen Dosage Table
Child's weight more than (pounds)	7	14	21	28	42	56	84	112	lbs
Total Amount (mg)	40	80	120	160	240	325	480	650	mg
Infant Drops 80 mg/0.8 ml	0.4	0.8	1.2	1.6	2.4	--	--	--	ml
Syrup: 160 mg/5 ml (1 tsp)	--	½	¾	1	1½	2	2½	4	tsp
Chewable 80 mg. tablets	--	--	1½	2	3	4	5-6	8	tabs
Chewable 160 mg. tablets	--	--	--	1	1½	2	3	4	tabs
Adult 325 mg. tablets	--	--	--	--	--	1	1½	2	tabs
Adult 500 mg. tablets	--	--	--	--	--	--	1	1	tab

Indications: Treatment of fever and pain.

Table Notes:

AGE LIMIT: Don't use under 12 weeks of age (Reason: fever during the first 12 weeks of life needs to be documented in a medical setting and if present, your infant needs a complete evaluation). EXCEPTION: Fever starting within 24 hours of immunization if child is 8 weeks of age or older. Avoid multi-ingredient products in children under 6 years of age (Reason: FDA recommendations 1/2008).
DOSAGE: Determine by finding child's weight in the top row of the dosage table
BRAND NAMES: Tylenol, Feverall (suppositories), generic acetaminophen
FREQUENCY: Repeat every 4-6 hours as needed. Don't give more than 5 times a day.
ADULT DOSAGE: 650 mg
MELTAWAYS: Dissolvable tabs that come in 80 mg and 160 mg (jr. strength)
SUPPOSITORIES: Acetaminophen also comes in 80, 120, 325 and 650 mg suppositories (the rectal dose is the same as the dosage given by mouth).
EXTENDED-RELEASE: Avoid 650 mg oral products in children (Reason: they are every 8-hour extended-release)

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Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 3/15/2008
Last Revised: 6/25/2008
Content Set: Pediatric HouseCalls Online
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.