Paracetamol Dosage

Paracetamol (Pandol) is an over-the-counter antipyretic (fever reducer) and analgesic (painkiller). Your dosage of paracetamol depends on a number of factors that include your age, the drug formulation, other medications currently taken, and other underlying medical conditions.

If using this drug for self-treatment, be sure to read the product label and dosing information that comes with the medication. If prescribed by your healthcare provider, read the prescription label and take medication exactly as prescribed. If you do not understand the dosing instructions, consult your healthcare provider.

As with any other medications, do not change or adjust your dose unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider.

Paracetamol Dosage for Adults and Older Children

As mentioned above, your dosage depends on the type of product that you use. Each product may contain different strength of paracetamol so be sure to read the specific dosing instructions that come with the medication.

Here is the usual dosing for adults and children age 12 years and above.

• Regular-strength tablets (325 mg/tab) – 1 to 2 tablets every four to six hours as needed, with maximum of 12 tablets in 24 hours.
• Extra-strength tablets (500 mg/tab) – 1 to 2 tablets every four to six hours as needed, with maximum of 8 tablets in 24 hours.
• Extended-release tablets (650 mg/tab) – 1 to 2 tablets every eight hours as needed, with maximum of 6 tablets in 24 hours.
• Oral liquid formulas (500 mg per 15 mL) – 2 tablespoons or 30 ml every four to six hours as needed, with maximum of eight tablespoons or 120 ml in 24 hours.

In general, the maximum dose of paracetamol is 4000 mg (4g) in 24 hours. Take note that there are many different medications (particularly painkillers and cold-and-flu medication) that contain paracetamol. If taking multiple drugs, be sure to check the product label of every drug you take to avoid paracetamol overdose. It is recommended that patients discuss with their healthcare provider all other drugs they take.

Paracetamol Dosage for Younger Children

For children ages 6 to 11 years, the recommended dosage of paracetamol is 325 mg or one tablet of regular-strength paracetamol every 4 to 6 hours as needed, with maximum of five tablets in 24 hours. Alternatively, your healthcare provider may prescribe based on the weight-related dosing schedule. Under this dosing schedule, the recommended single dose of paracetamol is 10 to 15 mg/kg of body weight every 4 to six hours.

There are various drug preparations for children such as syrup, suspension and others. These products are especially designed for younger children, often are more palatable. Contrastingly, younger children should not be given extra-strength and extended-release paracetamol products.