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What is the dose for Tylenol in a 2 year old?

Acetaminophen dose for a 2-year-old is based on weight, not age alone: typically 10-15 mg per kg of body weight, given every 4-6 hours, with no more than 5 doses in 24 hours.

A common example: a child weighing 11-16 kg (24-35 lbs) usually gets 160 mg per dose, but you should check the label or a pharmacist for your child's exact weight.

Strength of evidence

Good

This is based on consistent guidance from Canadian and international pediatric health authorities, not a single clinical trial, but the dosing principle (weight-based, 10-15 mg/kg) is well established across sources.

What the evidence says

For a 2-year-old, the right amount of Tylenol (acetaminophen) depends on your child's weight, not just their age. Most Canadian and international health sources agree the dose should be about 10 to 15 milligrams (mg) for every kilogram (kg) your child weighs, given every 4 to 6 hours as needed.

You should never give more than 5 doses in a 24-hour period. Giving too much acetaminophen can cause serious liver damage, so it is important to measure carefully using the dosing tool that comes with the medicine, not a kitchen spoon.

In Canada, acetaminophen for children comes in different strengths. For infants under 2, the common strength is 80 mg per 1 mL. For children aged 2 to 12, you might see liquid at 80 mg/1 mL or 160 mg/5 mL, and chewable tablets of 80 mg or 160 mg. The stronger 325 mg tablets are only meant for children older than 6.

As an example, a toddler weighing between about 11 and 16 kilograms (24 to 35 pounds) often gets a dose of 160 mg. But weights vary a lot at age 2, so it is best to weigh your child and check the dosing chart on the package, or ask a pharmacist, rather than relying on age alone.

If your child is under 2 years old, or if you are ever unsure about the right amount, check with your doctor or pharmacist first. If your child accidentally takes too much, call the poison control number for your province right away.

Sources

✓Reviewed by CH, MD, FRCPC

Reviewed by a specialist physician certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, who has read this answer against the sources listed above and confirmed it reflects them. That is not medical advice about your child. How we review

Answer checked August 18, 2026

Educational information only. Not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and no doctor-patient relationship is created by using this. Founded Parent has not examined your child and does not know their history, so this may not apply to you. In an emergency, call your local emergency number. What Founded Parent cannot do

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