Drugs Calculator

Pediatric Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) Dosage Calculator

Accurately calculate a single dose and maximum daily dose of liquid paracetamol for children based on their weight and the medication's concentration.

— Select Concentration — 120 mg / 5 mL (24 mg/mL) 160 mg / 5 mL (32 mg/mL) 250 mg / 5 mL (50 mg/mL)

function calculateDosage() { var childWeightInput = document.getElementById("childWeight"); var paracetamolConcentrationSelect = document.getElementById("paracetamolConcentration"); var resultDiv = document.getElementById("result"); var childWeight = parseFloat(childWeightInput.value); var paracetamolConcentration = parseFloat(paracetamolConcentrationSelect.value); if (isNaN(childWeight) || childWeight <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Please enter a valid positive number for the child\'s weight.'; return; } if (isNaN(paracetamolConcentration) || paracetamolConcentration <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = 'Please select a valid paracetamol concentration.'; return; } // Standard pediatric paracetamol dosing guidelines: // Single dose: 15 mg/kg // Maximum daily dose: 60 mg/kg (not to exceed 4 doses in 24 hours, or 4000 mg total for adults/older children) var singleDoseMg = childWeight * 15; var maxDailyDoseMg = childWeight * 60; var singleDoseMl = singleDoseMg / paracetamolConcentration; var maxDailyDoseMl = maxDailyDoseMg / paracetamolConcentration; // Round to two decimal places for mL singleDoseMl = singleDoseMl.toFixed(2); maxDailyDoseMl = maxDailyDoseMl.toFixed(2); resultDiv.innerHTML = '

Recommended Dosage:

' + 'Single Dose: ' + singleDoseMl + ' mL (' + singleDoseMg.toFixed(0) + ' mg)' + 'Maximum Daily Dose: ' + maxDailyDoseMl + ' mL (' + maxDailyDoseMg.toFixed(0) + ' mg)' + '(Do not give more often than every 4-6 hours. Do not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours.)' + 'Disclaimer: This calculator provides general guidance. Always consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist for specific medical advice and before administering any medication to a child.'; }

Understanding Pediatric Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) Dosing

Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a widely used over-the-counter medication for reducing fever and relieving mild to moderate pain in children. While generally safe and effective when used correctly, accurate dosing is paramount to prevent serious side effects, particularly liver damage from overdose.

Why Accurate Dosing is Crucial

Children are not simply small adults; their bodies process medications differently. Dosing for children is typically based on their weight, as this provides the most accurate way to ensure they receive an effective dose without exceeding safe limits. Giving too little medication may not be effective, while giving too much can lead to severe health complications, including acute liver failure, which can be life-threatening.

Standard Dosage Guidelines

The generally accepted guideline for a single dose of paracetamol in children is 15 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight. This dose can be repeated every 4 to 6 hours as needed. However, it is critical not to exceed a maximum of 60 mg per kg of body weight in a 24-hour period, and no more than 4 doses within that timeframe. For example, a child weighing 10 kg would receive a single dose of 150 mg and a maximum daily dose of 600 mg.

Understanding Paracetamol Liquid Concentrations

Paracetamol for children is commonly available in liquid formulations, which makes it easier to administer. These liquids come in various concentrations, meaning the amount of active drug (mg) per unit of volume (mL) can differ significantly. Common concentrations include:

• 120 mg / 5 mL: This means there are 120 milligrams of paracetamol in every 5 milliliters of liquid. This equates to 24 mg/mL.
• 160 mg / 5 mL: This means there are 160 milligrams of paracetamol in every 5 milliliters of liquid. This equates to 32 mg/mL.
• 250 mg / 5 mL: This means there are 250 milligrams of paracetamol in every 5 milliliters of liquid. This equates to 50 mg/mL.

It is absolutely essential to check the concentration on the bottle every time you administer medication, as using the wrong concentration with a standard dose measurement can lead to under-dosing or, more dangerously, accidental overdose.

How to Use the Calculator

Our Pediatric Paracetamol Dosage Calculator simplifies this process:

1. Enter Child's Weight: Input your child's current weight in kilograms (kg).
2. Select Concentration: Carefully read the label on your paracetamol liquid bottle and select the matching concentration from the dropdown menu.
3. Calculate: Click the "Calculate Dosage" button to instantly see the recommended single dose in milliliters (mL) and milligrams (mg), as well as the maximum daily dose.

Important Considerations and Warnings

• Always Use a Dosing Device: Use the syringe or measuring cup provided with the medication to ensure accuracy. Household spoons are not accurate for medication dosing.
• Check Expiry Dates: Do not use expired medication.
• Do Not Double Dose: Never give a double dose if a dose is missed.
• Avoid Other Paracetamol Products: Be aware that paracetamol is an ingredient in many combination cold and flu remedies. Giving multiple products containing paracetamol can lead to accidental overdose. Always check the active ingredients of all medications being given.
• Consult a Professional: This calculator is for informational purposes only and provides general guidelines. Always consult your pediatrician, doctor, or pharmacist for personalized medical advice, especially if your child has underlying health conditions, is taking other medications, or if you are unsure about dosing.
• Signs of Overdose: If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and dark urine.

By understanding the principles of weight-based dosing and carefully checking medication concentrations, parents and caregivers can safely and effectively use paracetamol to help their children feel better.