Loading Calculator...
Please wait a moment
Please wait a moment
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose can cause serious liver damage. Always use the measuring device provided with the product. Never give more than 5 doses in 24 hours. Contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately if you suspect an overdose.
Weight-based acetaminophen dosing for children
Weight is the most accurate way to dose
For Children's/Infants' Tylenol (160mg/5mL)
| Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Dose (mg) | Liquid (mL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-11 lbs | 2.7-5 kg | 40 mg | 1.25 mL |
| 12-17 lbs | 5.5-7.7 kg | 80 mg | 2.5 mL |
| 18-23 lbs | 8.2-10.5 kg | 120 mg | 3.75 mL |
| 24-35 lbs | 10.9-15.9 kg | 160 mg | 5 mL |
| 36-47 lbs | 16.4-21.4 kg | 240 mg | 7.5 mL |
| 48-59 lbs | 21.8-26.8 kg | 320 mg | 10 mL |
| 60-71 lbs | 27.3-32.3 kg | 400 mg | 12.5 mL |
| 72-95 lbs | 32.7-43.2 kg | 480 mg | 15 mL |
| 96+ lbs | 43.6+ kg | 640 mg | 20 mL |
Some doctors recommend alternating between acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin) for persistent fevers, but this should only be done under medical guidance due to the risk of dosing errors. It's generally safer to stick with one medication and follow proper dosing intervals.
Not necessarily. Fever is a natural immune response that helps fight infection. Focus on how your child feels and acts rather than the number on the thermometer. Treat for comfort if your child is uncomfortable, not just because there's a fever.
Acetaminophen typically starts working within 30-60 minutes and lasts 4-6 hours. Your child should seem more comfortable even if the fever doesn't completely go away. A complete return to normal temperature isn't the goal—comfort is.
If your child vomits within 15-20 minutes of taking the medicine, you may repeat the dose. If they vomit after 30+ minutes, most of the medication is probably absorbed—don't repeat the dose. Try acetaminophen suppositories (FeverAll) if vomiting is persistent.