As a parent, knowing the correct dosage of medication to give your child is crucial. Here’s a guide to help you understand the dosages for Motrin (ibuprofen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) based on the information provided.
My Story
I usually alternate Motrin and Tylenol every 3 hours. I start with Motrin because it lasts 6 hours, and then after 3 hours, I pump it up with Tylenol. This way, I start with a bigger dose from the get-go, especially if the baby has a fever. This method helps manage the fever effectively and provides continuous relief.
Tylenol (Acetaminophen) Dosage
Infants‘ TYLENOL® Oral Suspension
Active ingredient: Acetaminophen 160 mg in each 5 mL
| Weight | Age | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 6-11 lbs | 0-3 months | 1.25 mL |
| 12-17 lbs | 4-11 months | 2.5 mL |
| 18-23 lbs | 12-23 months | 3.75 mL |
| 24-35 lbs | 2-3 years | 5 mL |
Children’s TYLENOL® Oral Suspension
Active ingredient: Acetaminophen 160 mg in each 5 mL
Note: Historically, Infants’ Tylenol had a higher concentration of acetaminophen (160 mg per 5 mL) compared to Children’s Tylenol, but in recent years, the concentration has been standardized to reduce the risk of overdose. Now, Infants’ and Children’s Tylenol both typically contain 160 mg of acetaminophen per 5 mL.
| Weight | Age | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 24-35 lbs | 2-3 years | 5 mL |
| 36-47 lbs | 4-5 years | 7.5 mL |
| 48-59 lbs | 6-8 years | 10 mL |
| 60-71 lbs | 9-10 years | 12.5 mL |
| 72-95 lbs | 11 years | 15 mL |
Children’s TYLENOL® Chewables
Active ingredient: Acetaminophen 160 mg in each tablet
| Weight | Age | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 24-35 lbs | 2-3 years | 1 tablet |
| 36-47 lbs | 4-5 years | 1.5 tablets |
| 48-59 lbs | 6-8 years | 2 tablets |
| 60-71 lbs | 9-10 years | 2.5 tablets |
| 72-95 lbs | 11 years | 3 tablets |
Important Instructions for Tylenol:
- Dose every 4 hours as needed.
- Do not give more than 5 doses in 24 hours.
- Always use the dosing device that comes with the product.
- Do not use with any other product containing acetaminophen.
Motrin (Ibuprofen) Dosage
Infants‘ MOTRIN® Concentrated Drops
Active ingredient: Ibuprofen (NSAID) 50 mg in each 1.25 mL
| Weight | Age | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 12-17 lbs | 6-11 months | 1.25 mL |
| 18-23 lbs | 12-23 months | 1.875 mL |
Children’s MOTRIN® Oral Suspension
Active ingredient: Ibuprofen (NSAID) 100 mg in each 5 mL
| Weight | Age | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 24-35 lbs | 2-3 years | 5 mL |
| 36-47 lbs | 4-5 years | 7.5 mL |
| 48-59 lbs | 6-8 years | 10 mL |
| 60-71 lbs | 9-10 years | 12.5 mL |
| 72-95 lbs | 11 years | 15 mL |
Important Instructions for Motrin:
- Dose every 6-8 hours as needed.
- Do not give more than 4 doses in 24 hours.
- Always use the dosing device that comes with the product.
- Do not use with any other product containing ibuprofen.
Source of info
Since i’m not a doctor, I’m attaching the source file from my pediatrician. Always double/triple check your sources especially for medication.
Warning! Call poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (available 24/7) while going to ER – if you think you over medicate your child.