Acetaminophen (TYLENOL)

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Acetaminophen is a commonly used medication in children and is used to relieve fever and pain. There are many different brands of acetaminophen (i.e. Little Fevers, Feverall, Pedia Care and others) with Tylenol being the most well-known. To prevent accidental overdose of acetaminophen and acetaminophen-containing products, be sure to give your child the accurate dose according to your child's weight (and age). Your child's weight is the most important criteria when selecting the proper dosage.

Since many over-the-counter (OTC) medications include acetaminophen (including those recommended for colds, cough, fever, headaches, or general aches and pains), it is very important to read the Drug Facts label to ensure your child is not receiving a double dose of any drug. When filling prescriptions, be sure to inform the pharmacist that your child is taking acetaminophen.

In 2011, drug manufacturers of liquid acetaminophen standardized the concentrations of children's strength acetaminophen and infant strength acetaminophen in an effort to reduce the risk of overdose. Until just recently, different concentrations of acetaminophen have been available--infant drops in concentrations of 80 mg/0.8 mL and children's liquid concentration of 160 mg/5 mL. Now, all concentrations for children under 12 years of age will come in concentrations of 160 mg/5 mL and concentrated infant drops will no longer be available. It will take some time for this transition to occur, therefore, it is extremely important that you read the label of the medication to ensure proper dosing. Dosing instructions by weight as well as age will be made available on the Drug Facts label for all children's single ingredient medicines. Rectal suppositories are also available, however, the American Academy of Pediatrics urges caregivers to consult with their child's healthcare provider before administering acetaminophen rectally.

It is very important to use the correct measuring device that comes with the medication (see Medications & Vitamins for Children: Safety Tips). With the new standardized dosing transition, manufacturers of liquid acetaminophen will provide syringes for infants' products (for children age 3 and under) to ensure accurate dosing. Flow restrictors will also be placed on liquid acetaminophen bottles to make it hard for kids to drink large amounts of the drug. Children’s products intended for ages 2-12 years of age will offer dosing cups.

Due to the wide-spread use of acetaminophen in children, acetaminophen toxicity risk is of concern. If you suspect that your child has overdosed on acetaminophen, it is essential to call the Poison Control hotline (1-800-222-1222) and seek treatment right away. Some signs of toxicity include:

Loss of appetite (anorexia)
Nausea
Vomiting
Increased sweating
Pain and tenderness in right, upper quadrant of the abdomen
Decreased urine output

If your child is younger than 3 months of age and has a fever, be sure to notify your baby's healthcare provider before giving any medication since fevers at this age must be evaluated. Below is a dosing chart for acetaminophen. This chart contains both infant and children's concentration since both concentrations are currently on the market. It is very important to read the label of the medication to verify concentration and dosing. DO NOT GIVE ANY MEDICATION BEFORE CONSULTING YOUR PEDIATRICIAN!