What is the recommended dose of ibuprofen (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)) for an 11-year-old child with no known allergies or significant medical history?

Ibuprofen Dosing for an 11-Year-Old Child

For an 11-year-old child, administer ibuprofen at 10 mg/kg per dose every 6-8 hours orally, with a maximum single dose of 600 mg and a maximum daily dose of 40 mg/kg/day (not exceeding 2400 mg/day). 1

Weight-Based Dosing Strategy

• The standard pediatric dose is 10 mg/kg per dose, administered every 6-8 hours 1, 2
• For children aged 10 years or older, the maximum single dose is 600 mg 1
• The maximum daily dose should not exceed 40 mg/kg/day 1, 3
• If the child weighs more than 40 kg, use adult dosing regimens 1

Practical Dosing Example

For a typical 11-year-old:

• If weighing 30 kg: 300 mg per dose (10 mg/kg), up to 3-4 times daily
• If weighing 40 kg: 400 mg per dose (10 mg/kg), up to 3-4 times daily
• If weighing >40 kg: Use adult dosing (typically 400-600 mg per dose)

Timing and Frequency

• Doses can be given every 6-8 hours as needed 1
• Maximum of 3-4 doses in 24 hours 3
• Peak temperature reduction occurs 3-4 hours after administration 2
• Duration of action is longer than paracetamol 2

Critical Safety Considerations

Contraindications and precautions:

• Never administer to children with dehydration, diarrhea, or vomiting 4
• Contraindicated in children with wheezing, persistent asthma, or active varicella 4
• Do not use in children with known sensitivity to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs 4
• Ensure adequate hydration before and during treatment 3

Evidence Quality and Clinical Context

The dosing recommendations are based on well-established pediatric guidelines 1 and supported by extensive clinical trial data showing the effective dose range is 7.5-10 mg/kg 2. Ibuprofen has demonstrated superior or equal efficacy compared to paracetamol for pain and fever relief in children, with a favorable safety profile 2, 5.

Common pitfall: Parents frequently exceed the maximum recommended daily dose when using multiple medications 6. Advise caregivers to carefully record all dose times and avoid combining with other products containing ibuprofen or NSAIDs.

Important Clinical Notes

• Short-term use (up to 48 hours) is considered safe in children over 3 months with body weight above 5-6 kg 3
• Gastrointestinal adverse events are rare in pediatric populations 4
• Ibuprofen should be used primarily for inflammatory pain rather than as a routine antipyretic 4
• The oral route is preferred over rectal administration due to more reliable absorption 3