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 health professional 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 medications.
Be sure to follow these medication precautions:
- Call your health professional or pharmacist if you are unsure of the right dose for your child.
- If your child is age 3 months to 2 years, use ibuprofen only if your health professional has instructed you on the proper dose and timing of doses.
- Read all the instructions on the medication bottle and box carefully before giving your child any medication.
- Follow all instructions on the medication bottle and box. The correct dose and timing of the dose are important for the medication to work well.
Dosage: Dosages are based on the child's weight. Give the medication every 6 hours. Do not give more than 4 doses in a 24-hour period. Liquid preparations of ibuprofen include Children's Advil or Motrin Suspension. The liquid strength of these preparations is 100 mg per teaspoon (20 mg per mL). The usual dose of liquid ibuprofen is as follows:
Ibuprofen dose for your child's weight Child's weight in pounds (lb) Child's weight in kilograms (kg) Child's age Dose Less than 24 lb Less than 11 kg Younger than 2 yrs Ask a doctor 24–35 lb 11–16 kg 2–3 yrs 100 mg 36–47 lb 17–21 kg 4–5 yrs 150 mg 48–59 lb 22–27 kg 6–8 yrs 200 mg 60–71 lb 28–32 kg 9–10 yrs 250 mg 72–95 lb 33–43 kg 11 yrs 300 mg 96 lb and above 44 kg and above 12 yrs and older 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 medications:
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
- Corticosteroids (such as prednisone)
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: April 21, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics | |
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