OTCsafety.orgOn May 4, 2011, the makers of over-the-counter (OTC) single-ingredient liquid pediatric acetaminophen medicines announced plans to convert these pediatric products to just one concentration. While the transition is taking place, starting in June 2011, parents and caregivers can continue to use their current products with confidence as current labeling and dosing instructions for these children’s medicines are accurate for safe and appropriate use.
This voluntary change means that as the concentrated infant drops are phased out, only one strength of children’s liquid acetaminophen (160 mg / 5 mL) will be available for all children under 12-years-old .
It is important to be aware that as this transition is underway, there will be a time period when both concentrations of children’s acetaminophen liquid products (the concentrated drops and the new 160 mg / 5 mL concentration) will be available in stores and in medicine cabinets. Consumers should always read and follow the label and pay particular attention to the concentration, especially when a healthcare provider gives dosing instructions.
Related links:
- Changes to Infant's and Children's Liquid Acetaminophen Tip Sheet
- OTC single-ingredient pediatric liquid acetaminophen concentration chart
- Proposed dosing chart and directions
- "OTC Industry Announces Voluntary Transition to One Concentration of Single-Ingredient Pediatric Liquid Acetaminophen Medicines" (press release)
- Media kit for the joint meeting of the Nonprescription Drug Advisory Committee and Pediatric Advisory Committee on use of OTC acetaminophen in children (May 17-18, 2011)
