Alternatives for Infant/Children’s Liquid Pain Medication
Dosing Guide
The ongoing shortage of infant and children’s pain and fever medications has left many parents seeking alternatives.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are dosed based on a child’s weight in kilograms (kg).
It is safe to give an adult formulation of these medicines to infants and children if it is dosed correctly.
The following charts can serve as a dosing guide. Speak with your pharmacist for tips/tools regarding crushing and preparing these pills for your child.
Alternatives for Infant/Children’s Liquid Pain Medication PDF
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Give 1 dose every 4-6 hours as needed.
|
Weight Range (lb) |
Weight Range (kg) |
Number of regular strength (325mg) Acetaminophen tablets |
Maximum # doses per Day |
|
12.1-17.6 |
5.5- 8 |
1/4 (one quarter) |
5 |
|
16.5-23.8 |
7.5-10.8 |
1/3 (one third) |
5 |
|
23.9-35.7 |
10.9-16.2 |
1/2 (one half) |
5 |
|
35.8-53.5 |
16.3-24.3 |
3/4 (three quarters) |
5 |
|
48.4-71.5 |
22-32.5 |
1 |
5 |
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Give 1 dose every 6-8 hours as needed.
*Note: Ibuprofen should not be given to infants <6 months old (unless directed by physician)
|
Weight Range (lb) |
Weight Range (kg) |
Number of regular strength (200mg) Ibuprofen tablets per dose |
Maximum # doses per Day |
|
11-22 |
5-10 |
1/4 (one quarter) |
4 |
|
22-44 |
10-20 |
1/2 (one half) |
4 |
|
33-66 |
15-30 |
3/4 (three quarters) |
4 |
|
44-88 |
20-40 |
1 |
4 |
|
|
Age 12yrs+ |
1-2 every 4-6 hours as needed |
Daily maximum 1200mg |