Use of ibuprofen in young children
Ibuprofen (such as Advil) is a non-steroidal 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 ASA, do not give him or her ibuprofen.
Try ibuprofen if a fever of 39°C (102.2°F) 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 preparation of ibuprofen includes Advil Child Suspension. The liquid strength of this preparation is 100 mg per teaspoon (20 mg per mL). The usual dose of liquid ibuprofen is:
Ibuprofen dose for your child's weight Child's weight in kilograms (kg)
Child's weight in pounds (lb)
Child's age
Dose
Less than 11 kg
Less than 24 lb
Younger than 2 yrs
Ask a doctor
11–16 kg
24–35 lb
2–3 yrs
100 mg
17–21 kg
36–47 lb
4–5 yrs
150 mg
22–27 kg
48–59 lb
6–8 yrs
200 mg
28–32 kg
60–71 lb
9–10 yrs
250 mg
33–43 kg
72–95 lb
11 yrs
300 mg
44 kg and above
96 lb 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 ASA 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: June 22, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics | |
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