Ibuprofen Dosage Calculator for Children
Calculate children's ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) dosage by weight. This pediatric ibuprofen calculator provides dose ranges for 5 to 10 mg/kg per dose with liquid suspension volumes for infant drops (50 mg/1.25 mL), children's liquid (100 mg/5 mL), and junior strength (200 mg/5 mL). Includes maximum daily dose limits and dosing frequency for safe administration.
Enter Values
Result
Enter values above and click Calculate to see your result.
AI Assistant
Ask about this calculator
I can help you understand the ibuprofen dosage calculator for children formula, interpret your results, and answer follow-up questions.
Try asking
Our AI assistant provides general estimates and advice only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
Formula
How it works: The calculator multiplies the child's weight by the dose rate (5 mg/kg for mild symptoms, 10 mg/kg for higher relief) to get a single dose in mg. It then converts to mL using the selected liquid concentration. Daily maximum is capped at 40 mg/kg or 1,200 mg, and no single dose should exceed 400 mg.
Worked Example
Children's Ibuprofen Dosing Guide
Ibuprofen (sold as Advil, Motrin, and generic brands) is an NSAID used to reduce fever, pain, and inflammation in children. Dosing is always based on weight, not age.
- Standard dose range: 5 to 10 mg/kg per dose, given every 6 to 8 hours as needed (max 4 doses per day)
- Maximum single dose: 400 mg regardless of weight. Maximum daily dose: 40 mg/kg or 1,200 mg, whichever is less
- Three liquid concentrations available: infant drops (50 mg/1.25 mL for precise syringe dosing), children's liquid (100 mg/5 mL, most common), and junior strength (200 mg/5 mL for older children)
- Can be alternated with acetaminophen (Tylenol/paracetamol) every 3 to 4 hours for better fever control, but never give both at the same time
- Not recommended for infants under 6 months of age. Give with food to reduce stomach irritation. Avoid in dehydrated children or those with kidney concerns
Always use the measuring device provided with the medication, not a household spoon. Confirm dosing with your pediatrician or pharmacist. This calculator is for educational reference only.
You can also calculate changes using our Amoxicillin Dosage Calculator, Paracetamol Dosage Calculator, Paediatric Dosage Calculator, Benadryl Dosage Calculator for Children or Azithromycin Dosage Calculator for Children.
Children's Ibuprofen Dosage Chart by Weight
Quick reference dosage chart for liquid ibuprofen (Children's Motrin/Advil). Doses shown at the standard 10 mg/kg rate using 100 mg/5 mL concentration.
| Weight (kg) | Weight (lbs) | Dose (mg) | Volume (mL) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | 11 lbs | 50 mg | 2.5 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 7 kg | 15 lbs | 70 mg | 3.5 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 10 kg | 22 lbs | 100 mg | 5 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 12 kg | 26 lbs | 120 mg | 6 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 15 kg | 33 lbs | 150 mg | 7.5 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 18 kg | 40 lbs | 180 mg | 9 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 20 kg | 44 lbs | 200 mg | 10 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 25 kg | 55 lbs | 250 mg | 12.5 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 30 kg | 66 lbs | 300 mg | 15 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 35 kg | 77 lbs | 350 mg | 17.5 mL | Every 6-8 hours |
| 40+ kg | 88+ lbs | 400 mg max | 20 mL max | Every 6-8 hours |
Note: Doses shown for 100 mg/5 mL concentration at 10 mg/kg. For infant drops (50 mg/1.25 mL), divide volume by 4. Maximum single dose is 400 mg regardless of weight. Do not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours. Not recommended for infants under 6 months. Always confirm with physician. For educational reference only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ibuprofen can I give my child by weight?
The standard pediatric dose is 5 to 10 mg/kg per dose, given every 6 to 8 hours as needed. For a 10 kg child, that is 50 to 100 mg per dose (2.5 to 5 mL of children's liquid). For a 20 kg child, 100 to 200 mg per dose (5 to 10 mL). Maximum single dose is 400 mg regardless of weight.
How much children's ibuprofen 100mg/5ml do I give?
Divide the dose in mg by 100, then multiply by 5 to get mL. For a 15 kg child at 10 mg/kg: dose = 150 mg, volume = (150/100) x 5 = 7.5 mL. Always use the measuring syringe provided, not a household spoon.
Can I alternate ibuprofen and Tylenol for my child?
Yes, many pediatricians recommend alternating ibuprofen and acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 3 to 4 hours for persistent fever. For example: ibuprofen at 12:00 PM, acetaminophen at 3:00 PM, ibuprofen at 6:00 PM. Never give both at the same time. Keep a written log to avoid double-dosing.
What is the maximum daily dose of ibuprofen for children?
The maximum is 40 mg/kg per day or 1,200 mg per day, whichever is less. Do not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours. For a 20 kg child: max daily = 800 mg (4 doses of 200 mg). For a 30+ kg child: max daily = 1,200 mg (4 doses of 300 mg).
At what age can a baby take ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen is generally not recommended for infants under 6 months of age. For babies 6 months and older, use infant drops (50 mg/1.25 mL) with the provided syringe for precise dosing. Always consult your pediatrician before giving ibuprofen to infants, especially if they are dehydrated or have kidney concerns.
Should ibuprofen be given with food?
Yes, giving ibuprofen with food or milk helps reduce stomach irritation. Ibuprofen is an NSAID that can cause stomach upset, nausea, or in rare cases, stomach bleeding. If your child vomits after taking ibuprofen on an empty stomach, try again with a small snack.
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions based on these results. Do not disregard or delay seeking medical advice because of information obtained from this tool.
AI Assistant
Ask about this calculator
I can help you understand the ibuprofen dosage calculator for children formula, interpret your results, and answer follow-up questions.
Try asking
Our AI assistant provides general estimates and advice only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
Related Calculators
Related Articles
All articles
Gestational Age vs Due Date: What Is the Difference?
Gestational age vs due date explained in plain language. Learn how weeks pregnant, expected delivery date, LMP, ultrasound, and IVF dating fit together.
Read article
How to Calculate Corrected Age for Premature Babies
Learn how to calculate corrected age for premature babies using birth date, due date, and weeks early. Includes step-by-step examples and milestone guidance.
Read articleHow to Use a Fertile Window Calculator Correctly
Learn how to use a fertile window calculator correctly with cycle length, ovulation timing, sperm survival, and the best days to conceive.
Read article
COLA in 2026: How to Negotiate a Cost of Living Raise
A 3% raise with 4% inflation is a pay cut. Learn how to calculate your personal inflation rate and negotiate a COLA raise with data-driven leverage in 2026.
Read articleSecure and Private
All calculations run locally. Your data never leaves your browser.
Precise Calculations Powered by Calculory AI