Parent Resources

Ibuprofen

Dosages may be repeated every six to eight hours, but should not be given more than four times in twenty-four hours. (Note: Milliliter is abbreviated as mL; 5 mL equals 1 teaspoon [tsp]. Don’t use household teaspoons, which can vary in size.) Be sure to read the label to make sure you are using the right product..

Ibuprophen Chart

*: Note: Age is provided as a convenience only. Dosing for fever should be based on current weight.
†: Weight given is representative of the age range.

As a general guideline, read and follow the instructions on the manufacturer’s label when using any medication. Following the instructions is important to ensure that your child receives the proper dosages. Also, other over-the-counter medications, such as cold and cough preparations, may contain acetaminophen. The simultaneous use of more than one acetaminophen-containing product may be dangerous, so read all medication labels to ensure that your child is not receiving multiple doses of the same medicine. Also, as a general rule, do not give a child under two years old either acetaminophen or any other medication without the advice of your pediatrician.

Some parents have tried alternating between giving acetaminophen and ibuprofen when their child is running a fever. This approach, however, can cause medication errors—“Which medicine am I supposed to give him next?”—and could lead to potential side effects. So if your child is uncomfortable with a fever, choose which medicine to give, and then give it consistently. Either ibuprofen or acetaminophen is effective in reducing fever and making your child feel better. Always consult your doctor before changing the dose schedule, or using these medicines in combination.

Also keep in mind that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines should not be given to infants and children under two years of age because of potentially serious side effects. Studies also have shown that these cough and cold products are not effective in treating the symptoms of children under six years old, and may even pose health risks.

 

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, Healthychildren.org

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