Ibuprofen Dosage for Kids

Ibuprofen Dosage for Kids

Administering the correct dosage of ibuprofen to children is crucial for safe and effective pain relief or fever reduction. The dosage is primarily based on the child's weight, not age. However, age is sometimes used as a general guideline when weight is unknown. Always consult the product label or a healthcare professional for precise dosing instructions.

Here's a general guide for ibuprofen dosage in children:

Weight-based dosing:

The recommended dose is 10 mg per kilogram of body weight (or 4.5 mg per pound) every 6 to 8 hours.

Oral suspension (liquid) dosing (100 mg/5 mL concentration):

? 6-11 months (13-21 lbs): 1.25 mL

? 12-23 months (22-26 lbs): 1.875 mL

? 2-3 years (27-35 lbs): 2.5 mL

? 4-5 years (36-43 lbs): 3.75 mL

? 6-8 years (44-54 lbs): 5 mL

? 9-10 years (55-71 lbs): 7.5 mL

? 11 years (72-95 lbs): 10 mL

Chewable tablets (100 mg tablets):

? 2-3 years (24-35 lbs): 1 tablet

? 4-5 years (36-47 lbs): 1.5 tablets

? 6-8 years (48-59 lbs): 2 tablets

? 9-10 years (60-71 lbs): 2.5 tablets

? 11 years (72-95 lbs): 3 tablets

Important considerations:

Never exceed the recommended dose or frequency.

Don't give ibuprofen to children under 6 months without consulting a doctor.

Use the measuring device provided with the medication for accurate dosing.

Don't use adult formulations for children unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Don't give ibuprofen more often than every 6 hours or for more than 3 days without consulting a doctor.

Be aware of other medications that might contain ibuprofen to avoid accidental overdose.

If your child is taking any other medications, check with a healthcare provider before giving ibuprofen.

Ibuprofen should be given with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset.

If your child experiences any side effects or if symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.

Remember, while these guidelines are generally applicable, it's always best to consult with a pediatrician or pharmacist for personalized advice, especially for infants, children with medical conditions, or if you're unsure about the correct dosage.