What is the recommended dosage of ibuprofen (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)) for a child weighing 51 kilograms?

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Last updated: June 20, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

For a child weighing 51 kilograms, the recommended dosage of ibuprofen is 510-1020 mg every 6-8 hours as needed, not exceeding 4080 mg in 24 hours, based on the standard pediatric dosing of 10 mg per kilogram of body weight per dose, as supported by the study 1. The dosage is calculated based on the child's weight, with a recommended dose of 10 mg/kg per dose, as stated in the study 1. Since this child's weight puts them near adult size, they could safely take a standard adult dose, but it's essential to follow the pediatric dosing guidelines to avoid potential side effects.

  • Ibuprofen should be taken with food to minimize stomach irritation.
  • The medication typically starts working within 30-60 minutes and lasts about 6-8 hours.
  • It's crucial not to exceed the maximum daily dose to avoid potential side effects such as stomach upset, kidney issues, or increased bleeding risk.
  • If pain or fever persists beyond 3 days, medical advice should be sought. The study 1 provides the most recent and relevant guidance on the use of ibuprofen in infants and children, and its findings support the recommended dosage for a child weighing 51 kilograms. Additionally, the study 2 provides information on the pharmacokinetic characteristics of ibuprofen in children and the effective dose range, which further supports the recommended dosage.

References

Research

A general overview of the use of ibuprofen in paediatrics.

International journal of clinical practice. Supplement, 2003

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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