A mother asks for a paracetamol suspension dose for her 4-year-old child with fever. What is the most appropriate dose and interval?

• A. 240 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 4 doses per day
• B. 120 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 6 doses per day
• C. 360 mg every 6-8 hours, maximum 3 doses per day
• D. 200 mg every 4 hours, maximum 5 doses per day

Answer: (A)

Dosing children requires weight-based amounts and a strict daily limit. Paracetamol is given at about 10–15 mg per kilogram per dose, every 4–6 hours as needed, with a maximum of four doses in 24 hours (roughly 60 mg/kg/day).

For a typical 4-year-old weighing around 16 kg, a per-dose amount of 240 mg fits the 15 mg/kg target. Administering 240 mg every 4–6 hours up to four times a day keeps the daily total at about 960 mg, which is within the 60 mg/kg/day limit. This makes 240 mg per dose at 4–6 hour intervals, up to four doses daily the best choice.

The other options either give too small a per-dose amount, too large a per-dose amount, or exceed the daily maximum when used as often as stated. Always check the suspension’s concentration and use an appropriate dosing device to measure the exact milliliters.