Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen (such as Panadol, Tempra, or Tylenol) reduces fever and relieves pain. It does not reduce swelling, as do non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ASA and ibuprofen, but it also is less likely to cause stomach upset and other side effects.
Be sure to follow the non-prescription medicine precautions.
Dosage
- Adults: The usual dose is 650 mg. Doses may range from 500 mg to 1,000 mg per dose. Take every 4 hours, as needed, up to 4 times in a 24-hour period. Do not take more than 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Children: Give acetaminophen every 4 hours as needed. Do not give more than 5 doses in a 24-hour period. Dosages are based on the child's weight.
Acetaminophen dose for your child's weight Child's weight in kilograms Child's weight in pounds Dose of medicine 14.0 to 16.5
31.0 to 36.0
200 mg to 240 mg
16.5 to 19.0
37.0 to 42.0
240 mg to 280 mg
19.5 to 21.0
43.0 to 47.0
280 mg to 320 mg
21.5 to 25.0
48.0 to 55.0
320 mg to 380 mg
25.5 to 34.0
56.0 to 75.0
380 mg to 500 mg
34.5 to 40.5
76.0 to 89.0
500 mg to 600 mg
over 40.5
over 90.0
650 mg (adult dose)
If your child weighs less than 14 kg (31 lb) , see the dosages in use of acetaminophen in young children.
Side effects of acetaminophen are rare.
- Nausea and rash are the most common.
- High doses of acetaminophen can cause liver and kidney damage.
Reasons not to take acetaminophen
Do not take acetaminophen if you:
- Have kidney disease.
- Have liver disease.
- Drink alcohol heavily (3 or more drinks a day for men and 2 or more drinks a day for women).
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: October 3, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
 | ||
| |