What is the dosing formula for acetaminophen (Tylenol) oral suspension in infants?

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Last updated: March 21, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

For infant Tylenol (acetaminophen) oral suspension dosing, use the weight-based formula of 10-15 mg per kilogram of body weight every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 5 doses in 24 hours, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.

Key Considerations

  • Always use the measuring device provided with the medication, not household spoons.
  • Infant Tylenol suspension typically comes in a concentration of 160 mg per 5 mL, but check the product label carefully as concentrations can vary.
  • Never give adult formulations to infants.
  • Contact your pediatrician before giving Tylenol to infants under 3 months old.
  • Acetaminophen works by reducing fever and pain by affecting the temperature-regulating center in the brain and blocking pain signals.

Important Reminders

  • Always consult your child's healthcare provider if symptoms persist beyond 3 days, fever exceeds 102°F, or if you're unsure about proper dosing for your infant's specific situation.
  • The recommended dosing is based on the study by 1, which reviewed published and unpublished pediatric antipyretic data to provide a critical assessment of the 10-15-mg/kg oral dose and the current pediatric oral dosing schedules for acetaminophen.
  • Other studies, such as 2 and 3, although relevant to pediatric care, do not directly address the dosing of acetaminophen in infants and are therefore not the primary basis for this recommendation.

References

Research

Pediatric dosing of acetaminophen.

Pediatric pharmacology (New York, N.Y.), 1983

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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