Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) Dosing for an 8-Year-Old Weighing 16.3 kg
For a child weighing 16.3 kg, administer 163-245 mg of paracetamol syrup per dose (using the standard 10-15 mg/kg dosing), given every 4-6 hours as needed, with a maximum daily dose of 978 mg (60 mg/kg/day). 1
Weight-Based Calculation
Standard dose range: 10-15 mg/kg per dose 1
- Lower end: 10 mg/kg × 16.3 kg = 163 mg per dose
- Upper end: 15 mg/kg × 16.3 kg = 245 mg per dose
Dosing interval: Every 4-6 hours as needed 1
Maximum daily dose: 60 mg/kg/day 1
- For this child: 60 mg/kg × 16.3 kg = 978 mg per day maximum
- Never exceed 5 doses in 24 hours 1
Practical Syrup Administration
Most paracetamol syrups are formulated as 120 mg/5 mL (24 mg/mL concentration):
- For 163 mg dose: Approximately 6.8 mL (round to 7 mL)
- For 245 mg dose: Approximately 10.2 mL (round to 10 mL)
Start with the lower dose (7 mL) and increase to the higher dose (10 mL) if pain or fever control is inadequate. 1
Critical Safety Points
Oral syrup is preferred over rectal formulations because it provides more rapid and consistent absorption 1
Avoid overdosing: The maximum daily limit of 978 mg for this child must never be exceeded, as hepatotoxicity risk increases significantly above 60 mg/kg/day 1
Monitor total daily intake: If the child receives multiple doses, ensure the cumulative amount stays below the maximum daily dose 1
Spacing between doses: Maintain at least 4 hours between doses to prevent accumulation 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not combine formulations without accounting for total daily dose—if switching between oral and rectal routes, calculate the cumulative paracetamol intake 1
Avoid underdosing: Using only 10 mg/kg may provide inadequate fever or pain control; 15 mg/kg is often more effective for moderate symptoms 1
Check concentration carefully: Different syrup formulations may have varying concentrations; always verify the mg/mL strength before calculating volume 1