It is important to always read and follow the label when giving medicine to your child, and only use a medicine that treats your child’s specific symptoms. When possible, dose by your child’s weight using the directions on the label or instructions from your healthcare provider. And always use the dosing device (oral syringe or dosing cup) that comes with the product.

This guide will help you give your child the right amount of acetaminophen.

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Infant Acetaminophen FAQs

Is acetaminophen safe for children?

Medicines with acetaminophen can be safely used in your child as long as you read labels carefully to select an age-appropriate medicine and follow some simple guidelines:

  • Always look at the minimum age recommended for taking the medicine and don’t give it to your child if he/she is younger than the recommended age unless you have discussed it with your healthcare provider.
  • Pay attention to the dose and strength of each medicine each time you use it.*
  • Check the total dose of acetaminophen that you can give your child in one day, and wait until at least the minimum amount of instructed time until you give another dose. Giving a medicine too frequently, even if it is the right dose, can lead to an overdose and side effects.
  • If you are giving more than one medicine, look at the active ingredients listed on the Drug Facts label in each medicine to make sure you are not giving two medicines to your child that both contain acetaminophen . For example, many cold medicines contain acetaminophen, so make sure to carefully read the label before dosing, especially if you are giving your child cold medicine in addition to a fever reducer.
  • Only use a medicine that treats the symptoms your child is experiencing at that time.

At what age can I give my child acetaminophen?

For children 2 years and older, see the below chart to help dose your child. If your child is under the age of 2, be sure to ask your healthcare provider for the right dose.

Can I give my child acetaminophen and ibuprofen at the same time?

*About the Concentration of Your Child’s Medicine

Both infants’ products and children’s acetaminophen products have a concentration (strength) of 160mg/5mL. Prior to 2011, liquid acetaminophen products for infants had a different concentration than liquid acetaminophen products for older children. This was changed in order to standardize concentration and dosing across all single-ingredient pediatric liquid acetaminophen products. It is important to always check the expiration date of any medicine you are giving to your infant or child. Always ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions before giving medicine to your children. If your child is under 2 years of age, be sure to ask your healthcare provider for the right dose.