Children’s Tylenol Dosage Chart

Tylenol (also known by its generic name acetaminophen) is a common, over the counter medicine used in children. It is an analgesic used as both a pain reliever and fever reducer. Tylenol can be used to treat conditions like fevers, headaches, muscle aches, and toothaches. Over the years, parents have asked me many questions about the usage of Tylenol and the correct infant Tylenol dosage and children’s Tylenol dosage. I’ve created a Tylenol dosage chart that covers both at the end of this post.

Children’s Tylenol Dosage

Before reaching for that over-the-counter bottle, here are a few things I always want parents to keep in mind:

1. Tylenol should not be given to infants under the age of 3 months. If you are giving Infants’ Tylenol to a child under the age of 2, consult your pediatric healthcare provider.

2. Tylenol cannot be given more than every 4 hours. I do not recommend alternating ibuprofen or other pain reliever/fever reducers in between doses of Tylenol.

3. Do NOT give more than 5 doses of Tylenol in 24 hours.

4. The generic version of Tylenol is called acetaminophen. Tylenol and acetaminophen are the exact same medications. For this reason, I always advise parents to get whatever option is the most affordable medication, but make sure you are getting the proper infant’s or children’s versions of the medication you choose to use.

5. Many medication products include acetaminophen. Read ingredient labels to make sure you are not doubling up on acetaminophen and exceeding dosage limits by using more than one product containing acetaminophen at the same time.

6. Keep Tylenol and all medication locked and out of reach of children. If you suspect your child has overdosed on a medication, call the American Association of Poison Control Centers immediately at (800) 222-1222.

Tylenol Dosage Chart For Children and Infants

Click Here to Download your FREE chart!

Important Children’s Tylenol Dosage Information

• The correct Tylenol dosage for your child is always based weight and then age. Download our chart above for weight-based Tylenol dosing guidelines.
• Tylenol is available in liquid for infants and in liquid and chewable tablets for children. All children’s and infants’ Tylenol products have the same concentration of acetaminophen, but this may not be the case with generic acetaminophen brands. Always make sure you look at the milligrams on the label to give the correct dose.
• Always use a syringe, dropper, or the provided measuring cup for measuring liquid medications. Kitchen spoons are not accurate for measuring over-the-counter medication.

Most importantly, always contact your pediatric healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions about medicine you are giving your child.

Author: Dani Stringer, MSN, CPNP, PMHS – founder of KidNurse and MomNurse Academy