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 |