What is the recommended dose of paracetamol (acetaminophen) for adults and children with dengue?

Standard Dose of Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

For adults, the standard dose of paracetamol is 500-1000 mg every 4-6 hours, with a maximum daily dose of 4000 mg (4 g), though limiting chronic use to 3000 mg/day is advisable to reduce hepatotoxicity risk. For children, dosing is weight-based at 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 60 mg/kg/day 1.

Adult Dosing

• Single dose: 500-1000 mg (optimum unit dose is 1 g for efficacy) 2
• Frequency: Every 4-6 hours as needed
• Maximum daily dose: 4000 mg (4 g) 3, 1
• Recommended chronic limit: ≤3000 mg/day to minimize hepatotoxicity risk 3

The FDA-approved dosing specifies 650 mg (20.3 mL liquid formulation) every 4-6 hours for adults and children ≥12 years, not exceeding 6 doses in 24 hours 1.

Pediatric Dosing

Weight-based approach 1, 2:

• Standard dose: 10-15 mg/kg every 4 hours
• Maximum: 60 mg/kg/day (up to 4 doses)
• Oral route preferred: 15 mg/kg every 4 hours provides optimal analgesia/