Ibuprofen (Syrup Ibugesic) Dosing in Children
The recommended dose of ibuprofen syrup for children is 10 mg/kg per dose, administered every 6-8 hours, with a maximum of 3-4 doses per day (30-40 mg/kg/day total). 1, 2
Standard Dosing by Route
Oral Administration (Syrup/Suspension)
- Dose: 10 mg/kg per dose 1
- Frequency: Every 8 hours (or every 6 hours if needed) 1
- Maximum daily dose: 40 mg/kg/day when given 4 times daily, or 30 mg/kg/day when given 3 times daily 2
- Do not exceed: 2400 mg per day in older children 3
Age-Specific Considerations
Infants 3-6 months:
- Safe for short-term use in infants >3 months with body weight >5-6 kg 2
- Use 5-10 mg/kg per dose, 3-4 times daily 2
- Critical: Ensure adequate hydration before and during treatment 2
Children ≥6 months:
Clinical Context
Efficacy Timeline
- Fever reduction: Begins within 4 hours of administration 4
- Duration of effect: Approximately 6 hours per dose 5
- Ibuprofen may be more effective than paracetamol as an antipyretic 6
Important Safety Considerations
Contraindications:
- Infants <3 months of age 2
- Body weight <5-6 kg 2
- Dehydration (relative contraindication requiring correction first) 2
- Aspirin/NSAID-induced asthma 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Exceeding maximum doses: 8-11% of parents inadvertently exceed recommended maximum doses 4
- Rectal administration: Less reliable due to erratic absorption, especially in young infants; oral route preferred 1, 2
- Inadequate hydration: Special attention must be given to hydration status before administering to infants 2
Administration Tips
- May be given with meals or milk to reduce gastrointestinal upset 3
- Record all dose times carefully to prevent accidental overdosing, especially if alternating with other antipyretics 4
- Absorption is rapid and complete when given orally 7