Paracetamol Dosage for a 3-Year-Old Child Weighing 10kg
The recommended dose of paracetamol (acetaminophen) for a 3-year-old child weighing 10kg is 10-15mg/kg per dose, which equals 100-150mg per dose, given every 4-6 hours as needed, with a maximum of 4 doses in 24 hours (maximum daily dose of 60mg/kg/day or 600mg/day).
Dosing Guidelines
The dosage of paracetamol for children is weight-based rather than age-based to ensure optimal efficacy and safety:
- Standard dosing range: 10-15mg/kg per dose
- For a 10kg child: 100-150mg per dose
- Frequency: Every 4-6 hours as needed
- Maximum doses per day: 4 doses
- Maximum daily dose: 60mg/kg/day (600mg for a 10kg child)
Administration Options
Paracetamol for children is available in several formulations:
- Liquid suspension (typically 120mg/5mL or 250mg/5mL)
- Suppositories (various strengths)
- Chewable tablets (typically 80mg or 160mg)
For a 10kg child, using the 120mg/5mL suspension, the appropriate dose would be:
- 100mg dose = approximately 4.2mL
- 150mg dose = approximately 6.3mL
Safety Considerations
When administering paracetamol to young children, several important safety considerations should be kept in mind:
- Always use the measuring device provided with the medication to ensure accurate dosing
- Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency
- Keep track of all doses given within a 24-hour period
- Do not use multiple products containing paracetamol simultaneously
- Store medication out of reach of children
Clinical Evidence
Research supports the safety and efficacy of paracetamol at the recommended doses. Studies have shown that paracetamol is effective for treating fever and mild to moderate pain in children 1. The standard pediatric dose range of 10-15mg/kg has been established as both effective and safe 2.
When dosed appropriately, paracetamol has few side effects and is remarkably well tolerated 2. However, exceeding the recommended doses can lead to hepatotoxicity. Single ingestions of more than ten times the recommended dose are potentially toxic, and exposures greater than 140mg/kg/day for several days carry a risk of serious toxicity 2.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Dosing errors: Using household spoons instead of calibrated measuring devices can lead to significant dosing errors.
Exceeding maximum daily dose: Studies have shown that 8% of children receive more than the recommended maximum number of paracetamol doses in a 24-hour period 3.
Double-dosing: When multiple caregivers are involved, communication about when medication was last given is essential to prevent accidental overdosing.
Combination products: Some over-the-counter products contain paracetamol along with other ingredients. Always check all medication labels to avoid unintentional overdosing.
By following these guidelines, paracetamol can be safely and effectively used to manage fever and pain in a 3-year-old child weighing 10kg.