Ibuprofen Pediatric Dose Calculator
Calculate the correct ibuprofen dose for children by weight. Enter weight, concentration, and dosage form to get the recommended dose in mg, volume (mL), or number of tablets, plus dosing frequency. Informational only—always follow the instructions on the medicine label and consult a doctor or pharmacist. Explore more tools on free calculators on CalculatorBolt.
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on standard pediatric dosing guidelines. It does NOT replace professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or pharmacist before giving any medication to children.
Calculator
Enter the child's current weight
Select weight measurement unit
Select the form of ibuprofen you have
Common: 100mg/5mL (Children's). Check your medicine label.
Dose per Administration
Volume / Tablets
Max Daily Dose
Dose Settings
Standard: 10 mg/kg per dose
Standard: 40 mg/kg/day (max 1200mg/day)
Rounding Preferences
How it works
Standard Pediatric Ibuprofen Dose = Weight (kg) × 10 mg/kg per dose. This is the most commonly recommended dosing guideline.
We calculate the total dose in milligrams (mg) based on your child's weight, then convert it to the appropriate volume (mL) for liquid formulations or number of tablets based on the medicine's concentration or tablet strength.
We also calculate the maximum daily dose (typically 40 mg/kg/day, not to exceed 1200 mg/day for children) to help prevent accidental overdose.
Inputs explained
- Child's Weight: Current body weight in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs). Accurate weight is crucial for correct dosing.
- Dosage Form: The type of ibuprofen product you have: liquid suspension, chewable tablets, suppositories, or standard tablets.
- Concentration (for liquid): Amount of ibuprofen in 5mL of liquid. Common pediatric formulations are 100mg/5mL (Children's) or 50mg/1.25mL (Infant's).
- Tablet Strength (for tablets): Amount of ibuprofen per tablet. Common strengths: 50mg (Chewable), 100mg (Junior), 200mg (Adult).
Example
A child weighing 15 kg needs ibuprofen. You have liquid suspension with a concentration of 100mg/5mL.
Calculation:
- Dose = 15 kg × 10 mg/kg = 150 mg
- Volume = (150 mg / 100 mg) × 5 mL = 7.5 mL
- Maximum Daily Dose = 15 kg × 40 mg/kg = 600 mg/day
Result: Give 7.5 mL (150 mg) every 6-8 hours as needed, not to exceed 4 doses (600 mg) in 24 hours.
Tips & notes
- Use the measuring device provided: Always use the oral syringe, dosing cup, or dropper that comes with the medicine. Household spoons are not accurate.
- Don't exceed maximum daily dose: Do not give more than the recommended daily maximum (typically 40 mg/kg/day or 1200 mg/day, whichever is less).
- Give with food: Ibuprofen can be hard on the stomach. Giving it with food or milk can help reduce stomach upset.
- Wait between doses: Space doses at least 6-8 hours apart. Never give more than 4 doses in 24 hours.
- Check for other medications: Some combination cold/flu medicines contain ibuprofen. Don't double-dose accidentally.
- Age restrictions: Ibuprofen is generally not recommended for infants under 6 months. Always consult your pediatrician first.
- When to call the doctor: If fever persists for more than 3 days, or pain for more than 5 days, consult your healthcare provider.
- Hydration is important: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids, especially when taking ibuprofen for fever.
Safety Information
When NOT to use ibuprofen:
- Infants under 6 months (without doctor's approval)
- Child is dehydrated or vomiting persistently
- Child has a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding disorders
- Child is allergic to ibuprofen or aspirin
- Child has severe kidney or liver problems
- Child is taking certain other medications (ask your pharmacist)
FAQs
Typically 10 mg per kg of body weight per dose. This is a standard pediatric guideline, but always verify with the medicine label and your healthcare provider.
Generally, 40 mg per kg per day (not to exceed 1200 mg/day for children), but always check the medicine label and consult your doctor.
Consult a pediatrician for dosing in infants under 6 months. Ibuprofen is generally not recommended for babies under 6 months without medical supervision.
Typically every 6-8 hours as needed, with a maximum of 4 doses in 24 hours. Always follow the label instructions and doctor's advice.
Yes, ibuprofen can irritate the stomach. Giving it with food or milk can help reduce stomach upset.
Contact your doctor, pharmacist, or poison control center immediately if you suspect an overdose. Keep the medicine packaging for reference.
No. All calculations are performed in your browser. Your data is never sent to our servers. Use Export or Share Link to save locally.
Some doctors recommend alternating these medications for fever control, but always consult your healthcare provider before doing so.
Disclaimer
Medical Disclaimer: This is an informational tool based on standard pediatric dosing guidelines. This calculator does NOT replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always follow the instructions on the medicine label and consult your doctor or pharmacist before giving any medication to children. Ibuprofen dosing can vary based on age, medical conditions, and other factors. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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Author: CalculatorBolt Health Team
Reviewed by: Medical/Health Editor
Published: • Updated: