How much ibuprofen should I give my child for fever and pain?
Ibuprofen Dosage Chart for Children
| Weight (kg) | Age (Years) | Dosage (mg) | Frequency (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-6 | 6-11 months | 50 | 6-8 |
| 7-8 | 12-23 months | 62.5 | 6-8 |
| 9-10 | 2-3 years | 75 | 6-8 |
| 11-12 | 4-5 years | 100 | 6-8 |
| 13-15 | 6-8 years | 125 | 6-8 |
| 16-18 | 9-10 years | 150 | 6-8 |
| 19-21 | 11 years | 175 | 6-8 |
| 22-24 | 12 years | 200 | 6-8 |
Quick Answer
Determining the right ibuprofen dose for your child depends on their weight, or age if you don't know their weight.
It's crucial to use a proper measuring tool like a syringe or dosing cup to ensure accuracy.
Never give ibuprofen to babies under 6 months without a doctor's advice, and always confirm the dosage with your pediatrician, just to be sure.
Recommended Practices
Determine the Correct Dosage
Use your child's weight to calculate the ibuprofen dosage.
If you don't know their weight, use their age as a guide, but weight is more accurate.
Always refer to a reliable dosing chart or consult your doctor for the precise amount.
Use a Proper Measuring Tool
Always use a medicine syringe or dosing cup marked with milliliters (mL) to measure liquid ibuprofen.
Kitchen spoons vary in size and can lead to inaccurate dosing.
If the medicine doesn't come with one, ask your pharmacist.
Give the Medicine Every 6-8 Hours if Needed
Ibuprofen can be given every 6 to 8 hours as needed for fever or pain. Do not give it more frequently than every 6 hours. If fever persists for more than 24 hours or pain worsens, consult your doctor.
Administer with Food
Giving ibuprofen with food can help prevent stomach upset, which is a common side effect.
A small amount of food is usually sufficient.
This is especially important for children with sensitive stomachs.
Keep a Record
Maintain a record of when you give ibuprofen, the dosage, and your child's response.
This helps you track the effectiveness and avoid accidental overdosing.
Share this information with your doctor during check-ups.
Store Safely
Store ibuprofen out of reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
Ensure the bottle is tightly closed and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Discard any expired medication properly.
What to Avoid
Giving to Infants Under 6 Months Without Doctor's Advice
Ibuprofen is generally not recommended for infants under 6 months unless specifically advised by a doctor.
Their bodies may not be able to process the medication safely.
Always seek professional medical advice first.
Using Adult Ibuprofen
Never give adult ibuprofen tablets or capsules to children. The dosage is too high and can be dangerous. Always use a formulation specifically designed for children, like syrup or drops.
Exceeding the Maximum Daily Dose
Do not exceed the maximum recommended daily dose of ibuprofen. Overdosing can lead to serious side effects, including stomach bleeding and kidney problems. Follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Giving with Other Medications Without Consulting a Doctor
Avoid giving ibuprofen with other medications, especially those containing similar ingredients, without consulting a doctor.
Drug interactions can occur, leading to adverse effects.
Always inform your doctor about all medications your child is taking.
Assuming Higher Dose for Higher Fever
Do not increase the ibuprofen dose based on the severity of the fever.
The correct dosage is based on weight, not the fever's height.
Giving more than recommended will not bring the fever down faster and can be harmful.
Ignoring Underlying Conditions
If your child has underlying health conditions like kidney problems, asthma, or bleeding disorders, consult your doctor before giving ibuprofen.
It may not be suitable or require a modified dosage.
Some conditions can be worsened by ibuprofen.
Common Scenarios and Solutions
My child spits out the ibuprofen.
Try mixing the ibuprofen with a small amount of juice or milk to mask the taste.
You can also try giving it in smaller, more frequent doses.
If your child continues to refuse, consult your doctor for alternative options.
My child vomits shortly after taking ibuprofen.
Wait for at least 30 minutes, and if your child is no longer nauseous, you can give another dose. If they vomit again, consult your doctor. Do not give another dose if they continue to vomit.
I accidentally gave my child too much ibuprofen.
Contact your doctor or a poison control center immediately. Provide them with the child's weight, the amount of ibuprofen given, and the time it was administered. Follow their instructions carefully.
My child's fever is not coming down with ibuprofen.
Ensure you're giving the correct dosage based on your child's weight.
You can also try alternating ibuprofen with paracetamol (acetaminophen) every 3-4 hours, but consult your doctor first.
If the fever persists for more than 24 hours, seek medical attention.
Similar Questions Parents Ask
Can I give ibuprofen and paracetamol together?
While you can alternate between ibuprofen and paracetamol, it's best to consult your doctor before doing so, to ensure it's appropriate for your child's condition.
How long does it take for ibuprofen to reduce fever?
Ibuprofen typically starts reducing fever within 30 to 60 minutes. If there's no improvement after an hour, consult your doctor.
Is it safe to give ibuprofen on an empty stomach?
Giving ibuprofen with food can help prevent stomach upset. It's generally recommended to give it with a small amount of food.
What are the side effects of ibuprofen in children?
Common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea. Serious side effects are rare but can include stomach bleeding and kidney problems. Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
Signs to Consult Immediately
Fever lasting more than 24 hours
Stiff neck or severe headache
Difficulty breathing
Rash
Unusual drowsiness or irritability
Vomiting blood or black, tarry stools
Signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dry mouth)
Severe abdominal pain
Detailed Explanation
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces fever and relieves pain by blocking the production of prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.
It's a commonly used medicine for children, but it's important to use it safely and correctly.
Normal temperature varies slightly from child to child, but generally, a temperature above 99.5°F (37.5°C) taken rectally or 99°F (37.2°C) taken orally is considered a fever.
Ibuprofen can help bring down the fever and ease discomfort, but it's not a cure for the underlying illness.
Warning signs that require medical attention include a fever that lasts more than 24 hours, a stiff neck, severe headache, difficulty breathing, rash, or if your child is unusually drowsy or irritable.
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
For babies aged 6-12 months, ensure the ibuprofen formulation is appropriate for their age and weight.
Always use the provided syringe for accurate dosing.
For children older than 1 year, you can use either syrup or chewable tablets, depending on their preference and ability to swallow.
Premature babies and those with underlying health conditions require special consideration.
Always consult your doctor before giving ibuprofen to these children.
They may need a lower dose or alternative medication.
In summer, ensure your child stays hydrated while taking ibuprofen, as fever can lead to dehydration.
In winter, dress your child in light clothing to help them cool down, as overdressing can trap heat and worsen the fever.
During monsoon, be extra cautious about hygiene to prevent infections that may cause fever.
Remember, ibuprofen is meant to manage fever and pain, not to treat the underlying cause.
If your child's condition doesn't improve or worsens, it's crucial to seek medical attention to diagnose and treat the root cause of the problem.
Sources
Indian Sources
Refer to the IAP's latest guidelines for updated recommendations on fever management in children. Look for their publications on the IAP website.
Search the Indian Pediatrics journal for articles on ibuprofen use and safety in children. This journal often publishes research relevant to Indian children.
International Sources
Consult the WHO guidelines for global recommendations on fever management. These guidelines provide evidence-based advice applicable in various settings.
AAP provides parent-friendly information on ibuprofen dosage and safety. Their website is a reliable source for pediatric health information. "Use your child's weight to decide on the right amount to give."
UNICEF promotes the rational use of medicines for children globally. Their resources may provide insights into safe medication practices.
Recommended Reading for Parents
This book provides comprehensive guidance on child health and development, including information on medication safety. Check for availability in Indian bookstores or online retailers.
The IAP website offers valuable resources for parents on various aspects of child health, including fever management and medication use. Look for parent education materials.