Updated dosing for children’s liquid medicines containing paracetamol has been developed to ensure that children get the most effective amount and to support giving it to them in the best way.
The updated dosing will have a larger number of narrower age bands and will define a single dose per age band.
Paracetamol continues to be an exceptionally safe and effective method of short term pain and fever relief when used in children when used according to the best patient information supplied with the medicine.
The changes are being made to ensure children get the most optimal dose of paracetamol suitable for their age. The updated dosing advice will clarify the doses, making it easier for parents and carers to know exactly how much paracetamol they should give their children.
The current dosage system has a single band of 6-12 years. In the updated system, this will be divided into three separate age bands of 6-8 years, 8-10 years and 10-12 years. Paracetamol products for children currently on the market should have the updated dosage instructions by the end of 2011. In the meantime, parents and carers should still follow the current dosing and should follow the advice on the packaging, making sure never to exceed the recommended dose.
