From the Research
I strongly advise against giving Motrin (ibuprofen) to a 7-month-old child without consulting a healthcare provider first. For infants under 6 months, ibuprofen is generally not recommended at all. For infants 6 months and older, the typical dosage is based on weight: approximately 5-10 mg per kg of body weight every 6-8 hours. For a 25-pound child (approximately 11.3 kg), this would typically be around 50-100 mg per dose, but this should only be given under medical supervision 1.
Key Considerations
- Infant ibuprofen formulations usually come as a liquid suspension of 50 mg/1.25 mL or 100 mg/5 mL.
- It's crucial to use the measuring device provided with the medication for accurate dosing.
- Fever in infants this young can be a sign of serious illness, and self-medicating without professional guidance could mask important symptoms or cause harm.
- Additionally, ibuprofen can cause stomach irritation and should be given with food.
- Always check with your pediatrician before administering any medication to an infant this young.
Evidence Summary
The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is from 2020, which compared acetaminophen with ibuprofen for the treatment of fever or pain in children younger than 2 years 1. This study found that ibuprofen resulted in reduced temperature and less pain within the first 24 hours of treatment, with equivalent safety. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider before giving ibuprofen to a 7-month-old child, as they can assess the individual child's needs and provide personalized guidance.
Dosage Guidance
Based on the available evidence, the recommended dosage of Motrin (ibuprofen) for a 7-month-old child weighing 25 pounds is approximately 50-100 mg per dose, every 6-8 hours, under medical supervision 1. However, this should only be given after consulting a healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized guidance and ensure the child's safety.