Use of ibuprofen in young children
Ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) is a
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is
used to relieve pain and reduce fever and
inflammation.
Try ibuprofen only if
acetaminophen has not relieved the child's fever or pain or your child's doctor recommends it. If your child is allergic to aspirin, do not give
him or her ibuprofen.
Try ibuprofen if a fever of
102°F (39°C) or higher
continues after using acetaminophen.
- Review the use of acetaminophen to be sure you
gave the proper dose.
- Do not alternate ibuprofen and acetaminophen
because of the possible risk of overdose. Studies have not shown any additional
benefit from alternating these medicines.
Be sure to follow these medicine precautions:
- Call your child's doctor or pharmacist if
you are unsure of the right dose for your child.
- If your child is
younger than 2 years old, use ibuprofen only if your child's doctor has
instructed you on the proper dose and timing of doses.
- Ibuprofen comes in concentrated drops, liquid, tablets, or caplets. Read and follow all the
instructions on the medicine bottle and box carefully before giving your child
any medicine. The correct dose and timing of the dose are important for the medicine to
work well.
Dosage: Dosages are based on the
child's weight. Give the medicine every 6 hours. Do not give more than 4 doses
in a 24-hour period.
Ibuprofen dose for your child's weight| Child's
weight in pounds (lb) | Child's
weight in kilograms (kg) | Dose |
|---|
| Less than 12 lb | Less than 6 kg | Ask a doctor |
| 12–17 lb | 7–8 kg | 50 mg |
| 18–23 lb | 9–10 kg | 75 mg |
| 24–35 lb | 11–16 kg | 100 mg |
| 36–47 lb | 17–21 kg | 150 mg |
| 48–59 lb | 22–27 kg | 200 mg |
| 60–71 lb | 28–32 kg | 250 mg |
| 72–95 lb | 33–43 kg | 300 mg |
| 96 lb and above | 44 kg and above | Adult dose |
Side effects of ibuprofen are usually mild. Stomach upset or
discomfort is the most common side effect. Taking ibuprofen with food may
help.
Do not give your child ibuprofen if
he or she has any of the following:
- History of gastrointestinal
bleeding
- Kidney or liver disease
- Allergic reactions to
aspirin or related drugs
- Anemia
- Blood-clotting
defect
Do not give your child ibuprofen if he
or she is taking any of the following medicines:
- Blood thinners
(anticoagulants)
- Corticosteroids (such as prednisone)
Last Updated:April 21, 2009