11-14-2022

Alternatives for Infant/Children’s Liquid Pain Medication


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
per dose
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