Pseudoephedrine (Decongestant) Dosage Table
Article Body
Liquid 15 mg/1 teaspoon (tsp) |
1/2 |
3/4 |
1 |
1 1/2 |
2 |
-- |
mL |
| Liquid 15 mg/5 milliliters (ml) |
2.5 |
4 |
5 |
7.5 |
10 |
-- |
tsp |
| Chewable 15 mg |
-- |
-- |
1 |
1 1/2 |
2 |
4 |
tablets |
| Tablets 30 mg |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
1 |
2 |
tablets |
| Tablet 60 mg |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
1 |
tablets |
Indications: Treatment of nasal congestion (stuffiness).
Table Notes:
- AGE LIMIT: Don't use under 4 years of age.
- Reason 1: Not approved by FDA because dosage not studied in this age range
- Reason 2: Risk of dosage error causing high blood pressure
- CAUTION: Never give 2 cough or cold medicines at the same time. (Reason: May share an ingredient and cause poisoning). Avoid multi-ingredient products in children under 6 years of age (AAP recommendations 10/2008)
- AVAILABILITY: Pseudoephedrine products are found behind the counter of pharmacies in response to legislation enacted in 2006. Ask a pharmacist for assistance in obtaining these medications.
- DOSAGE: determine by finding child's weight in the top row of the dosage table.
- MEASURING the DOSAGE: Syringes and droppers are more accurate than teaspoons. If possible, use the syringe or dropper that comes with the medication. If you use a teaspoon, it should be a measuring spoon. Regular spoons are not reliable. Also, remember that 1 level teaspoon equals 5 ml and that ½ teaspoon equals 2.5 ml.
- ADULT DOSAGE: 60 mg maximum
- FREQUENCY: Repeat every 6 hours as needed
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- Last Updated
- 5/11/2013
- Source
- Adapted from My Child Is Sick! Expert Advice for Managing Common Illnesses and Injuries (Copyright © 2011 Barton D. Schmitt, MD, FAAP)
The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
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