Panadol Syrup for Children — Complete Dosage and Safety Guide
- Panadol syrup (paracetamol) is first-line for fever and pain in children
- Dosing should be weight-based, not just age-based
- Overdose risks liver damage — use the exact measuring cup
- Don't give it to babies under 3 months without doctor consultation
- Can be given every 4-6 hours, no more than 4 doses in 24 hours
| Active ingredient | Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) |
| Available strengths | 120mg/5ml, 250mg/5ml |
| Dosing basis | Weight-based (10-15 mg/kg per dose) |
| Max daily doses | 4 times per 24 hours |
| Under 3 months | Doctor consultation required |
What Is Panadol Syrup?
Panadol syrup contains the active ingredient paracetamol (acetaminophen) — the safest and first-line medicine for fever and pain in children. It's a staple medicine in every home across Pakistan.
What Is Panadol Syrup Used For?
- Fever — viral infections, teething, after vaccinations
- Pain — headache, toothache, sore throat, body aches
- Teething discomfort
- Post-vaccination fever/pain
Dosage — Weight-Based (More Accurate)
10-15 mg/kg per dose, every 4-6 hours, maximum 4 doses in 24 hours.
| Weight | Dose (120mg/5ml syrup) |
| 5-7 kg (3-6 months) | 2.5 ml — only with doctor's advice |
| 8-10 kg (6-12 months) | 4 ml |
| 11-15 kg (1-3 years) | 5 ml |
| 16-21 kg (4-6 years) | 7.5 ml |
| 22-27 kg (7-9 years) | 10 ml |
Note: This is general guidance — always follow the syrup's packaging or your doctor's exact instructions, since different concentrations are available.
CRITICAL Safety Tips
- Only use the provided measuring cup/syringe — not a kitchen spoon, as the dose could be wrong
- Calculate the dose by weight, not just by guessing from age — every child has a different weight
- Check other cold/flu medicines — they may also contain paracetamol, risking a double dose
- Never give more than 4 doses in 24 hours — the biggest risk of liver damage comes from overdose
Babies Under 3 Months
Always talk to a doctor before giving Panadol to a baby under 3 months old — at this age, fever can be a sign of a serious underlying infection that needs proper evaluation, not just lowering the temperature.
Has your child's fever lasted more than 3 days, or is your baby under 3 months old? Consult a doctor on Ilaaj AI immediately.
Consult a Doctor NowOverdose Symptoms — EMERGENCY
Paracetamol overdose can cause liver damage, which can be life-threatening. Go to the hospital immediately if you see these signs:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Lethargy or confusion (after a few hours)
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (in severe cases)
Can Panadol and Ibuprofen Be Alternated?
For high fever, alternating both (e.g., every 3 hours) is sometimes done under doctor's guidance, but only do this with a doctor's advice — there's a risk of confusion and accidental overdose if timing isn't kept correct.
When to See a Doctor
- Any fever in a baby under 3 months
- Fever above 39°C (102°F) or lasting more than 3 days
- Fever not controlled even with Panadol
- Fever with rash, stiff neck, or seizures
- Child isn't eating/drinking or is becoming lethargic
Conclusion
Panadol syrup is a safe and effective first-line treatment for fever and pain in children when used at the correct dose. Using weight-based dosing and the exact measuring tool is essential to avoid overdose. Confirm your child's exact dose with a doctor on Ilaaj AI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should Panadol syrup dose be calculated by weight or age?
By weight — this is more accurate since children of the same age can have very different weights. Use the 10-15 mg/kg per dose formula, and confirm with a doctor if unsure.
Can Panadol be given to a baby under 3 months?
Not without consulting a doctor first. At this age, fever can be a sign of a serious infection that needs proper evaluation — simply lowering the temperature isn't enough.
How many times a day can Panadol syrup be given?
One dose every 4-6 hours, maximum 4 doses in 24 hours. Giving more increases the risk of liver damage — strictly follow this limit to avoid overdose.
What are the symptoms of Panadol overdose?
Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, lethargy or confusion (after a few hours), and in severe cases, yellowing of the skin/eyes. Go to the hospital immediately if you see these signs — liver damage can be life-threatening.
Can Panadol and Brufen (ibuprofen) be given together to children?
Not without doctor's guidance — alternating both is done in some cases for high fever, but timing confusion risks accidental overdose. Always confirm the exact schedule with a doctor.
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