Learning About Acetaminophen Doses for Children

Introduction

Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) reduces fever and pain. Children need special amounts of this medicine. Your doctor may call these pediatric doses.

You can find this medicine in many forms. Your child can chew it or drink it. It can also be given as a suppository. This is a small capsule you put in your child's rectum. It may be a good choice when your child can't keep anything in his or her stomach.

Make sure to use the right amount of this medicine. The correct dose depends your child's size and weight.

Examples

Examples include:

• Children's Tylenol.
• Infants' Tylenol Drops.
• Junior Strength Tylenol Fastmelts.

What to know about this medicine

• Your child's over-the-counter medicine will have a "Drug Facts" label. On the label, you'll find directions for your child's age or weight, the dose to give, and how often to give the dose.
• Speak to a pharmacist if you need help.
• Make sure you understand what amount of medicine in millilitres (mL) to measure for your child's dose.
• Do not use this medicine if your child is allergic to it.
• Talk to your doctor before you give your child the medicine if:
  • Your baby is younger than 3 months and has a fever. Your doctor will make sure that the fever is not a sign of a serious problem.
  • Your child has kidney or liver disease.
• Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with his or her medicine.
• Check with your doctor or pharmacist before you give your child any other medicines. This includes over-the-counter medicines. Make sure your doctor knows all of the medicines and natural health products your child takes. Taking some medicines together can cause problems.