Paracetamol Pediatric Dose Calculator
Calculate the correct paracetamol (acetaminophen) dose for children by weight. Enter weight, concentration, and dosage form to get the recommended dose in mg, volume (mL), or number of tablets, plus dosing frequency. Informational only—always follow the instructions on the medicine label and consult a doctor or pharmacist. Explore more tools on free calculators on CalculatorBolt.
Calculator
Dose Settings
Rounding Preferences
How it works
Standard Pediatric Paracetamol Dose = Weight (kg) × 15 mg/kg per dose. This is the most commonly recommended dosing guideline.
We calculate the total dose in milligrams (mg) based on your child's weight, then convert it to the appropriate volume (mL) for liquid formulations or number of tablets based on the medicine's concentration or tablet strength.
We also calculate the maximum daily dose (typically 60 mg/kg/day, not to exceed 4000 mg/day for older children) to help prevent accidental overdose, which can cause serious liver damage.
Inputs explained
- Child's Weight: Current body weight in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs). Accurate weight is crucial for correct dosing.
- Dosage Form: The type of paracetamol product you have: liquid suspension, chewable tablets, suppositories, or standard tablets.
- Concentration (for liquid): Amount of paracetamol in 5mL of liquid. Common pediatric formulations are 120mg/5mL or 250mg/5mL.
- Tablet Strength (for tablets): Amount of paracetamol per tablet. Common strengths: 80mg, 160mg (Chewable), 500mg (Adult).
Example
A child weighing 15 kg needs paracetamol. You have liquid suspension with a concentration of 120mg/5mL.
Calculation:
- Dose = 15 kg × 15 mg/kg = 225 mg
- Volume = (225 mg / 120 mg) × 5 mL = 9.4 mL
- Maximum Daily Dose = 15 kg × 60 mg/kg = 900 mg/day
Result: Give 9.4 mL (225 mg) every 4-6 hours as needed, not to exceed 4 doses (900 mg) in 24 hours.
Tips & notes
- Use the measuring device provided: Always use the oral syringe, dosing cup, or dropper that comes with the medicine. Household spoons are not accurate.
- Don't exceed maximum daily dose: Do not give more than the recommended daily maximum (typically 60 mg/kg/day or 4000 mg/day, whichever is less). Overdose can cause serious liver damage.
- Check the label carefully: Paracetamol concentrations vary. Always verify your medicine's specific concentration before dosing.
- Wait between doses: Space doses at least 4 hours apart. Never give more than 4 doses in 24 hours.
- Watch for hidden paracetamol: Many combination cold/flu medicines contain paracetamol. Don't double-dose accidentally.
- Safe for infants: Paracetamol can be given to infants (unlike ibuprofen), but always verify dosing with your pediatrician for babies under 3 months.
- When to call the doctor: If fever persists for more than 3 days, or pain for more than 5 days, consult your healthcare provider.
- Paracetamol vs Acetaminophen: These are the same medication. Paracetamol is used in UK/Europe/Australia; acetaminophen in USA/Canada.
Safety Information
⚠️ Overdose Warning:
Paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage or death. Never exceed the recommended dose. If you suspect overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in US). Symptoms may not appear immediately but liver damage can be occurring.
When to use with caution:
- Child has liver problems or history of liver disease
- Child is taking other medications (check for drug interactions)
- Child has phenylketonuria (PKU) - some chewable forms contain aspartame
- Child is dehydrated or not eating well
- Long-term use (more than 5 days) - consult doctor