How much Tylenol (acetaminophen) should I give my child?

Acetaminophen dosing is based on weight, not age. The recommended dose is 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 5 doses in 24 hours. For example, a 20-pound (9 kg) child would receive 90-135 mg per dose. Maximum daily dose is 75 mg/kg, not exceeding 4,000 mg. Always use the measuring device provided with the medication, as kitchen spoons are inaccurate.

How much ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) can I give my child?

Ibuprofen dosing is 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours, with a maximum of 4 doses per day. For a 20-pound (9 kg) child, that's 45-90 mg per dose. Important: Do not give ibuprofen to infants under 6 months old, and avoid if your child is dehydrated, vomiting, or has kidney issues. Maximum daily dose is 40 mg/kg, not exceeding 1,200 mg for children.

Can I alternate between Tylenol and ibuprofen for my child?

Yes, alternating is considered safe and may provide better fever control. A common approach is to give one medication, then the other 3-4 hours later, continuing to alternate. However, this increases risk of dosing errors. Keep a written log of what you gave and when. Many pediatricians recommend sticking to one medication unless fever is persistently high (over 102°F/39°C) and not responding to single therapy.

What temperature is considered a fever in children?

Fever thresholds vary by measurement method. Rectal (most accurate for infants): 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Oral: 100°F (37.8°C) or higher. Axillary (armpit): 99°F (37.2°C) or higher. Ear: 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. For babies under 3 months, any rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher requires immediate medical attention, regardless of how the baby appears.

What is the difference between infant and children's Tylenol?

The key difference is concentration. Infant drops were once more concentrated (80 mg/0.8 mL), but since 2011, both infant and children's liquid acetaminophen are the same concentration: 160 mg per 5 mL. The main difference now is the measuring device included - infant products have droppers for smaller volumes, while children's products have cups. Always read the label carefully and use the correct measuring device.

When should I call the doctor about my child's fever?

Call immediately if: baby under 3 months has any fever (100.4°F+), baby 3-6 months has fever over 102°F, child of any age has fever over 104°F, fever lasts more than 3 days, or child shows concerning symptoms like difficulty breathing, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, persistent vomiting, or lethargy. Also call if fever returns after being gone for 24+ hours, which may indicate a secondary infection.

Calculators/Medicine Dosing

Children's Medicine Dosing Calculator

Safe dosage guide for acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin)

Important Safety Information

This calculator provides general dosing guidance only. Always verify doses with your pediatrician and check the specific product label. When in doubt, call your doctor or Poison Control (1-800-222-1222).

Enter Child's Weight

Weight

Medication

Enter your child's weight to calculate the safe dose

This calculator provides weight-based dosing guidance for children's fever and pain medications. Dosing is based on AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommendations.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Dose: 10-15 mg/kg
Every 4-6 hours
Max 5 doses per day
Safe from birth (ask doctor)

Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin)

Dose: 5-10 mg/kg
Every 6-8 hours
Max 4 doses per day
Only for 6+ months old

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics, FDA OTC Drug Labeling Guidelines

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This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or pharmacist.

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Children's Medicine Dosing Calculator

Enter Child's Weight

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin)

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