Pediatria pre prax 1/2010

Optimal dosage of paracetamol for treating pain and fever

The generally stated and accepted single analgesic dose of paracetamol by mouth is 10–15 mg/kg. The SPCs and PILs of medications containing 500 mg of paracetamol in adults recommend the dose of 1–2 tablets. Thus, in individuals with a body weight over 50 kg, under dosage occurs with a dose of 500 mg, which may cause insufficient efficacy. The optimal dosage of paracetamol should be defined based on the patient's body weight.

Keywords: acetaminophen, dosage, body weight, pain, fever.