What is the recommended dose of Tylenol (acetaminophen) for a 4-month-old infant weighing 22.2 pounds?

Acetaminophen Dosing for a 4-Month-Old Infant

For a 4-month-old infant weighing 22.2 pounds (10.1 kg), the recommended dose of acetaminophen (Tylenol) is 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours as needed, which equals approximately 101-151 mg per dose.

Weight-Based Dosing Calculation

Acetaminophen dosing for infants should be carefully calculated based on weight to ensure both safety and efficacy:

• Weight of infant: 22.2 pounds = 10.1 kg
• Recommended dose range: 10-15 mg/kg
• Calculated dose: 10.1 kg × (10-15 mg/kg) = 101-151 mg per dose
• Maximum frequency: Every 4-6 hours as needed
• Maximum daily doses: No more than 5 doses in 24 hours

Administration Guidelines

Infant Formulation Options

• Infant liquid acetaminophen is available as 160 mg/5 mL concentration
• For a 101-151 mg dose, this equals approximately 3.2-4.7 mL of liquid medication

Administration Tips

• Use the measuring device provided with the medication
• Never use household spoons for measuring
• Administer with or without food
• For fever, may repeat every 4-6 hours as needed
• For pain, regular dosing provides better relief than as-needed dosing

Important Safety Considerations

• Do not exceed 5 doses (50-75 mg/kg) in a 24-hour period
• Always check the concentration on the bottle (160 mg/5 mL is standard)
• Avoid combination products containing acetaminophen and other medications
• Store medication out of reach of children
• Acetaminophen overdose can cause serious liver damage
• For infants under 3 months, consult a healthcare provider before giving acetaminophen

Special Considerations for Young Infants

Young infants metabolize medications differently than older children:

• At 4 months old, the infant has more developed liver function than newborns
• However, careful dosing is still essential to prevent potential toxicity
• If fever persists for more than 24 hours or pain continues despite appropriate dosing, consult a healthcare provider

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Confusing infant and children's formulations (different concentrations)
2. Using household measuring spoons instead of calibrated devices
3. Administering doses too frequently (less than 4 hours apart)
4. Giving multiple medications that contain acetaminophen
5. Continuing use for more than 3 days without consulting a healthcare provider

Remember that acetaminophen is generally considered safe when used at appropriate doses, but overdosing can lead to serious liver damage. Always follow the dosing instructions carefully and consult a healthcare provider with any questions or concerns.