Actifed Dosing for Children
Actifed (triprolidine/pseudoephedrine combination) is not recommended for children under 6 years of age without consulting a physician, and for children 6 to under 12 years, the dose is 1.33 mL (1.25 mg triprolidine) every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 5.33 mL (5 mg triprolidine) in 24 hours. 1
Age-Based Dosing Guidelines
Children Under 6 Years
- Consult a physician before use - the FDA-approved labeling does not provide specific dosing for this age group 1
- This reflects the general principle that young children require individualized assessment due to unique pharmacokinetic differences 2
Children 6 to Under 12 Years
- Triprolidine component: 1.33 mL (1.25 mg) every 4 to 6 hours 1
- Maximum daily dose: 5.33 mL (5 mg triprolidine) in 24 hours 1
- Use only the enclosed dropper provided with the product 1
Children 12 Years and Older (Adult Dosing)
- Triprolidine component: 2.67 mL (2.5 mg) every 4 to 6 hours 1
- Maximum daily dose: 10.67 mL (10 mg triprolidine) in 24 hours 1
Clinical Experience Data
Historical clinical experience with Actifed in pediatric populations demonstrated:
- Daily dose range for children aged 2-12 years: 90-180 mg pseudoephedrine hydrochloride combined with 3.75-7.5 mg triprolidine hydrochloride 3
- The medication was well-tolerated with minimal side effects, primarily transient tiredness on the first day of treatment 3
Important Caveats
- Do not exceed recommended dosages - strict adherence to maximum daily limits is essential 1
- Age-based dosing limitations - children are not simply "small adults" and require age-appropriate dosing considerations 4, 2
- Sedation risk - tiredness may occur, particularly on the first day of treatment 3
- Measurement accuracy - use only the dropper provided with the medication to ensure accurate dosing 1