Tylenol Pediatric Dosage Calculator
Calculate the appropriate Tylenol (acetaminophen) dosage for children based on weight, age, and medication concentration to ensure safe and effective pain and fever relief.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the child's weight and select the appropriate unit
- Enter the child's age in years (use decimals for months)
- Select the form of Tylenol you have available
- Choose the reason for giving medication (fever, pain, or both)
- Select the severity of symptoms
- Click Calculate Dosage to see the recommended amount
Formula Used
Dosage (mg) = Weight (kg) × Dosage Factor (mg/kg)
Where:
- Weight (kg) = Child's weight in kilograms
- Dosage Factor = 10-15 mg/kg depending on condition and severity
- Volume (mL) = Dosage (mg) ÷ Concentration (mg/mL)
Dosage Guidelines:
- Fever: 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours
- Pain: 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours
- Maximum daily dose: 75 mg/kg (not to exceed 4,000 mg)
Example Calculation
Real-World Scenario:
A parent needs to determine the correct Tylenol dose for their 4-year-old child who has a moderate fever.
Given:
- Weight = 33 lbs (15 kg)
- Age = 4 years
- Medication Form = Children's Liquid (160mg/5mL)
- Reason = Fever
- Severity = Moderate
Calculation:
For moderate fever, use 12.5 mg/kg
Dosage = 15 kg × 12.5 mg/kg = 187.5 mg
Volume = 187.5 mg ÷ (160 mg/5 mL) = 5.9 mL
Result: Give 5.9 mL of Children's Liquid every 4-6 hours as needed
Why This Calculation Matters
Practical Applications
- Ensures safe dosing for children of different weights
- Prevents underdosing which may be ineffective
- Avoids overdosing which can cause liver damage
- Helps parents use different medication forms correctly
Key Benefits
- Reduces medication errors in pediatric care
- Provides consistent dosing recommendations
- Helps healthcare providers communicate dosing clearly
- Supports better fever and pain management in children
Common Mistakes & Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
References & Disclaimer
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before giving medication to children. Dosages may need adjustment based on individual health conditions and other factors.
References
- Tylenol Official Website: Children's Dosage Guide - Official dosage recommendations for Tylenol products
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Acetaminophen Dosage Chart - Guidelines for acetaminophen administration in children
- Mayo Clinic: Fever treatment: Quick guide to treating a fever - Guidelines for fever management in children
Accuracy Notice
This calculator provides general dosage recommendations based on standard pediatric guidelines. Individual dosing may vary based on specific health conditions, other medications being taken, and healthcare provider recommendations. Always follow the specific instructions of your healthcare provider and read medication labels carefully.
About the Author
Kumaravel Madhavan
Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.