Tylenol Dosage

Depending on the specific type of Tylenol, dosage recommendations will vary. Generally, adults and children age 12 and older take 2 tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain relief. The recommended dose for children ages 6 to 12 is 325 mg every four to six hours as needed. To avoid overdosing on the drug, make sure to follow Tylenol dosing guidelines carefully.

 

Tylenol Dosage: An Introduction

The dose of Tylenol® (acetaminophen) that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • The particular Tylenol product
  • Other medications you may be taking
  • Other medical conditions you may have.
     
As is always the case, do not adjust your Tylenol dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 

Tylenol Dosing for Adults and Older Children

These Tylenol dosing instructions apply to adults and children age 12 and older (see Children's Tylenol Dosage and Infant Tylenol Dosage for information about Tylenol dosing in younger children). The recommended Tylenol dose depends on which Tylenol product you are using. For adults and children age 12 and older, the recommended Tylenol dose is as follows:
 
  • Regular strength (325 mg) Tylenol -- 2 tablets every four to six hours as needed, not to exceed 12 tablets in 24 hours
  • Extra strength (500 mg) Tylenol -- 2 tablets (or gel tabs) every four to six hours as needed, not to exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours
  • Extended-release (650 mg) Tylenol -- 2 tablets (or gel tabs) every eight hours, not to exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours
  • Liquid Tylenol (500 mg per 15 mL) -- 2 tablespoonfuls (30 mL total) every four to six hours as needed, not to exceed 8 tablespoonfuls in 24 hours.
     
It is important to avoid taking more than 4 grams (4000 mg) of Tylenol per day. This includes other sources of acetaminophen, including many prescription pain medications and many non-prescription cold and cough remedies.
(Tylenol Dosage Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;