Paracetamol Pediatric Dosage
Weight-based acetaminophen dosing for children and adolescents. Convert to suspension volumes or tablet counts while respecting maximum daily limits.
Usual: 15 mg/kg every 4–6 hours (range 10–15 mg/kg).
Guideline: 75 mg/kg/day (max 4 g/day).
Do not exceed 5 doses in 24 hours.
Children's formulation is typically 160 mg/5 mL.
Common tablets: 160 mg (chewable), 325 mg, 500 mg (adult).
Dosage Results
Per dose
420 mg
≈ 13.1 mL (32.0 mg/mL) • ≈ 1.3 tablets (325 mg)
Daily total
1680 mg/day
Planned 4 doses/day. Maximum allowed 2100 mg/day.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter weight and desired dose
Most clinicians use 15 mg/kg. Reduce to 10 mg/kg for milder symptoms or hepatic impairment.
Check daily limit
Ensure total planned doses do not exceed 75 mg/kg/day or 4 g/day, whichever is lower.
Convert to mL or tablets
Input suspension strength and tablet size to view equivalent volumes or counts.
Formula
Per dose (mg) = weight (kg) × mg/kg.
Based on WHO, AAP, and NICE guidelines for pediatric paracetamol/acetaminophen dosing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is paracetamol the same as acetaminophen?
Yes—different names in different countries for the same medication.
How long between doses?
At least 4 hours; 6 hours preferred unless symptoms recur sooner.
What if the child is vomiting?
Consider rectal suppositories or consult the clinician. Oral absorption may be unreliable.
Can I combine with ibuprofen?
Yes for children ≥6 months, but track each medication separately to avoid dosing errors.
When should I avoid paracetamol?
Avoid or use cautiously in significant liver disease, chronic alcohol use, or known allergy.