It Differs From "A Spoonful Of Sugar"

Acetaminophen can be used by kids to treat pain or fever, but parents should carefully read medicine labels to prevent dose mistakes. According to the NIH website, the "directions" portion of the label will tell you whether the medication is appropriate for your child and how much to give (PDF). "Ask your pharmacist or doctor what to do if a dose for your child's weight or age is not indicated on the label or you can't identify how much to give." The concentration of liquid acetaminophen for children and newborns is now the same: 160 mg/5 mL. As acetaminophen products for infants are typically packed with an oral syringe rather than a dropper, it follows that infants require less of it.

Some tips for giving children acetaminophen are never give a child more than one medicine that contains the active ingredient acetaminophen. To determine if a medication contains acetaminophen, look for the name “acetaminophen” or “paracetamol” in the “Active ingredients” section of the drug information label. Choose the right OTC medication based on your child's weight and age. The instructions on the Drug Information label will tell parents if the medicine is right for their child and how much to do. If the child's weight or age is not listed on the label or the label does not provide dosage information, parents should ask the pharmacist or doctor directly. Pay attention to the treatment recommendations in the manufacturer's instructions or the prescribed information from your doctor. Take your child to the doctor to be checked and receive a more appropriate course of treatment if the fever or pain do not go away. Never utilize medication outside of the recommended dosage or additional dosage days. Use the measurement tool that was provided with the product for liquid dosage (such as syrup). Never use a teaspoon or a kitchen spoon (unless specifically instructed).