From the Research
For a 14-month-old child with fever, the recommended dose of ibuprofen is 5-10 mg per kilogram of body weight every 6-8 hours, not exceeding 4 doses in 24 hours. You should weigh your child to calculate the exact dose. Ibuprofen for children typically comes as a liquid suspension (often 100 mg/5 mL), and you should use the measuring device provided with the medication for accurate dosing. Always check the concentration on the bottle as it may vary between products. Do not give ibuprofen to children under 6 months of age. The medication works by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals, typically bringing fever down within 30-60 minutes after administration. If your child's fever persists beyond 3 days, is above 102.2°F (39°C), or if your child appears very ill, contact your healthcare provider. Ensure your child stays well-hydrated while taking ibuprofen, and never use adult formulations for children unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider.
Key Considerations
- The dose of ibuprofen should be calculated based on the child's weight, as this ensures the safest and most effective treatment 1.
- It's crucial to follow the recommended dosing interval and not exceed the maximum number of doses in 24 hours to minimize the risk of adverse effects 2.
- Ibuprofen has been shown to be effective in reducing fever in children, with some studies suggesting it may be more effective than acetaminophen in certain scenarios 1, 3.
- However, the choice between ibuprofen and acetaminophen should be based on individual patient needs and medical history, and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Safety and Efficacy
- Ibuprofen is generally well-tolerated in children when used as directed, but it's essential to be aware of potential side effects and monitor the child's condition closely 4, 5.
- The most recent and highest quality study suggests that dual therapy or mono therapy with acetaminophen and ibuprofen may have similar safety profiles, but ibuprofen may be more effective in reducing fever 2.
Administration and Monitoring
- Always use the measuring device provided with the medication to ensure accurate dosing, and check the concentration on the bottle as it may vary between products.
- Monitor the child's temperature and overall condition closely, and seek medical attention if the fever persists or worsens, or if the child appears very ill.