Ibuprofen (also known as Motrin® and Advil®) is a medicine used to reduce fever and pain. It is an "over-the-counter" medicine, meaning that you can get it without a doctor’s prescription.
This table* can help you figure out the right amount to give. (Find a print-friendly version here.) Use your child’s weight to decide on the right amount to give. If you do not know your child’s weight, use your child’s age. Be sure to check with your child’s doctor to make sure you are giving the right amount.
*Table notes:
Age of child: Do not use ibuprofen in children who are less than 6 months old unless your child's doctor tells you to. This is because it has not been found to be safe in children less than 6 months old. The use of the medicine in children less than 6 months is also not approved by the FDA. It is also best not to give medicines with more than one ingredient in it to children less than 6 years of age.
Dosage: Determine by finding child's weight in the top row of the dosage table.
Measuring the dose for liquid medicines (should be in "mL" or metric units): It is easier to give the right amount of liquid medicine when using a syringe than when using a kitchen teaspoon or tablespoon. Use the syringe or dosing cup that comes with the medicine. If a tool does not come with the medicine, ask your pharmacist for one.
- Ibuprofen drops: Ibuprofen infant drops come with a measuring syringe.
Adult dosage: 400 mg
How often to give the medicine (frequency): You can give ibuprofen every 6-8 hours if needed.
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