Quick answer: Dose by your child’s weight, not their age. Find your child’s weight in the chart below, use the correct amount, and never exceed the frequency listed — even if the fever isn’t gone yet.
📋 Dosing Rules at a Glance
✔ Tylenol (acetaminophen): every 4–6 hrs · max 5 doses in 24 hrs
✔ Motrin/Advil (ibuprofen): every 6–8 hrs · max 4 doses in 24 hrs · not for babies under 6 months
✔ Never give both at the same time without calling your pediatrician first
✔ Always use the measuring device that comes with the medicine — not a kitchen spoon
Welcome! As caregivers, ensuring that your child receives the right dose of medication is crucial. This resource provides weight‑based dosing charts for common over‑the‑counter fever and pain relievers—Tylenol® (acetaminophen) and Motrin® (ibuprofen)—along with safety tips, frequently asked questions, and guidance on when to consult a pediatrician. Always read product labels and consult your child’s doctor for individual advice.
Tylenol Dosing Chart
The table below provides weight‑based dosing for Tylenol (acetaminophen) liquid formulations. Always check the concentration on your bottle; these charts assume 160 mg per 5 mL.
| Weight | Approximate Age | Infants’ Tylenol Oral Suspension | Children’s Tylenol Oral Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–11 lbs | 0–3 months | 1.25 mL | — |
| 12–17 lbs | 4–11 months | 2.5 mL | — |
| 18–23 lbs | 12–23 months | 3.75 mL | — |
| 24–35 lbs | 2–3 years | 5 mL (1 tsp) | 5 mL (1 tsp) |
| 36–47 lbs | 4–5 years | — | 7.5 mL (1½ tsp) |
| 48–59 lbs | 6–8 years | — | 10 mL (2 tsp) |
| 60–71 lbs | 9–10 years | — | 12.5 mL (2½ tsp) |
| 72–95 lbs | 11 years | — | 15 mL (3 tsp) |
Reference: All Infants’ Tylenol and Children’s Tylenol oral suspension products have the same acetaminophen concentration (160 mg/5 mL).
Motrin Dosing Chart
The table below shows weight‑based dosing for Motrin (ibuprofen) products. Ibuprofen should not be used in infants under six months of age.
| Weight | Approximate Age | Infants’ Motrin Concentrated Drops | Children’s Motrin Oral Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–11 lbs | 0–5 months | Do not use | — |
| 12–17 lbs | 6–11 months | 1.25 mL | — |
| 18–23 lbs | 12–23 months | 1.875 mL | — |
| 24–35 lbs | 2–3 years | — | 5 mL (1 tsp) |
| 36–47 lbs | 4–5 years | — | 7.5 mL (1½ tsp) |
| 48–59 lbs | 6–8 years | — | 10 mL (2 tsp) |
| 60–71 lbs | 9–10 years | — | 12.5 mL (2½ tsp) |
| 72–95 lbs | 11 years | — | 15 mL (3 tsp) |
Safety & Usage Tips
- Use weight first: Dose by your child’s weight whenever possible. If you don’t know the weight, use the age range as a backup.
- Follow the bottle: Always read the label on the medication you are giving; concentrations can vary by product.
- Limit total doses: Tylenol (acetaminophen) can be given every four hours as needed—no more than five doses in 24 hours. Motrin (ibuprofen) can be given every six to eight hours—no more than four doses in 24 hours.
- Use the right device: Only use the dosing device that comes with the product (syringe or dosing cup). Do not use kitchen teaspoons.
- Do not mix products: Tylenol and Motrin are different medications. Do not give multiple acetaminophen products together or multiple ibuprofen products together. If a healthcare professional recommends alternating, make sure to track timing carefully.
- Consult your pediatrician: Contact a healthcare provider if your child is younger than six months (for ibuprofen), has chronic medical conditions, is taking other medications, or if you are unsure about dosing.
- Watch for red flags: Seek medical care if your infant is under three months with a fever, shows signs of dehydration, experiences persistent high fever, has difficulty breathing, or cannot keep fluids down.
When to Call a Doctor or Visit the Emergency Room
Medication charts are helpful, but they do not replace professional medical advice. Reach out to your pediatrician or seek emergency care if your child:
- Is younger than three months with any fever.
- Has a fever that lasts longer than 48 hours or does not respond to medication.
- Shows signs of serious illness such as persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, or rash.
- Is dehydrated (fewer wet diapers/urination, dry mouth, no tears when crying).
- Has a chronic medical condition or is on prescription medications—dosages may need adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute specific medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or healthcare provider if you have questions about dosing or if your child has unique health considerations.
Ready for more? Explore our individual guides for Tylenol dosage for babies and children and Motrin dosage for infants and children, or download our printable dosing charts for offline reference.
If you find this guide helpful, share it with other parents and bookmark it for future reference. Your child’s health matters!