What Is Ibuprofen and When Should It Be Used?
Ibuprofen is a commonly used over-the-counter medication for relieving pain, reducing fever, and managing inflammation in children. It is especially effective for treating conditions like headaches, minor injuries, ear infections, and teething pain. Parents should consult a healthcare professional before administering ibuprofen to ensure it is appropriate for their child’s specific needs.
How to Calculate the Right Dosage
The correct ibuprofen dosage depends on your child’s weight, not their age. Typically, ibuprofen is dosed at 5–10 mg per kilogram of body weight every 6–8 hours, but no more than four doses in a 24-hour period. Always read the medication’s label carefully and use the measuring device provided for accuracy. For infants and young children, liquid formulations are often the best option, while older children may be able to take chewable tablets or capsules.
Dosages for ibuprofen medicines for various weights and ages
| Medicine Name | May Give Every | 12-17 lbs. 6-11 mo. |
18-23 lbs. 12-23 mo. |
24-35 lbs. 2-3 yr. |
36-47 lbs. 4-5 yr. |
48-59 lbs. 6-8 yr. |
60-85 lbs. 9-11 yr. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chewable Tablets 100 mg | 6 hours | 1 tab. | 1-1/2 tab. | 2 tab. | 2-1/2 tab. | ||
| Chewable Tablets 50 mg | 6 hours | 2 tab. | 3 tab. | 4 tab. | 5 tab. | ||
| DROPS 50 mg/1.25 mL* | 6 hours | 1 dppr. 1.25mL |
1-1/2 dppr. 1.875mL |
2 dppr. 2.5mL |
3 dppr. 3.75mL |
||
| Suspension 100 mg/5 mL | 6 hours | 2.5mL or 1/2 tsp. |
4mL or 3/4 tsp. |
5mL or 1 tsp. |
7.5mL or 1-1/2 tsp. |
10mL or 2 tsp. |
12.5mL or 2-1/2 tsp. |
| Tablets 200 mg | 6 hours | 1 tab. | 1-1/2 tab. |
Important Safety Tips
- Avoid Overdosing: Administering too much ibuprofen can lead to serious side effects such as stomach upset, kidney damage, or more severe complications. Never exceed the recommended dose.
- Check for Allergies: Ensure your child has no known allergies to ibuprofen or related medications.
- Monitor for Reactions: Keep an eye on your child after administering ibuprofen for any signs of adverse reactions, such as a rash, difficulty breathing, or persistent vomiting. If these occur, seek medical attention immediately.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
If your child’s symptoms persist or worsen after administering ibuprofen, or if they develop a high fever that does not respond to medication, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Similarly, children under six months old should only be given ibuprofen under the guidance of a doctor.
Alternatives to Ibuprofen
In some cases, ibuprofen may not be the right choice for your child. Alternatives such as acetaminophen may be recommended depending on your child’s health conditions or medication tolerance. Speak with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for your child.
Ibuprofen vs. Acetaminophen
While both ibuprofen and acetaminophen are effective in managing pain and fever, ibuprofen also reduces inflammation, making it ideal for conditions like sprains or minor injuries. However, acetaminophen is gentler on the stomach and may be a better option for children with sensitive digestive systems. Your healthcare provider can advise on which medication to use, or if alternating between the two is appropriate.
Consult Us for Safe and Effective Pediatric Care
At Valley Urgent Care, your child’s health is our top priority. If you have questions about ibuprofen dosage or need guidance on managing your child’s symptoms, our team of experts is here to help. Visit us today for professional pediatric care and personalized advice you can trust.
