Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 2/5/2026

Dosing and Safety Guidelines for Paracetamol and Metoclopramide in Children

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) Dosing

  • For pediatric patients, the recommended dose is 10–15 mg per kilogram of body weight every 4–6 hours, not to exceed 75 mg/kg per day or 4 g per day (whichever is lower). This recommendation applies to an 8‑year‑old child and is based on weight‑based calculations. 1

Metoclopramide Dosing

  • The standard pediatric dose is 0.1 mg per kilogram of body weight per administration, with a maximum of 10 mg per dose. 1
  • Doses may be repeated every 6–8 hours as needed, respecting the maximum single‑dose limit. 1

Contraindications and Critical Safety Alerts

  • Metoclopramide must never be combined with tramadol in any pediatric patient. This is an absolute contraindication. 1
  • Metoclopramide is contraindicated in children younger than 1 year. 1

Practical Implementation Steps

  • Weight‑based calculation: Always weigh the child and compute doses based on actual kilograms before administration. 1
  • Check for contraindicated co‑medications: Prior to giving metoclopramide, verify that tramadol is not being used concurrently. 1
  • Avoid prohibited combinations: Do not administer metoclopramide together with tramadol under any circumstances. 1
  • Age restriction compliance: Do not give metoclopramide to infants under 1 year of age. 1