What is the recommended dose of Dimetapp (Brompheniramine) for a 47-pound child?

Dimetapp (Brompheniramine) Dosing for a 47-Pound Child

For a 47-pound (21.3 kg) child, the recommended dose of Dimetapp (brompheniramine) is 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 doses in 24 hours. 1

Weight-Based Dosing Determination

A 47-pound child weighs approximately 21.3 kg, which places them in the 6 to under 12 years age category for brompheniramine dosing 1. The FDA-approved dosing for this weight range is:

• 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) every 4 hours 1
• Maximum: 6 doses per 24-hour period 1

Key Dosing Principles for This Weight

• Children weighing less than 40 kg (88 pounds) require pediatric weight-based dosing rather than adult dosing across most medication classes 2, 3
• At 21.3 kg, this child is well within the pediatric dosing range and should not receive adult doses 3
• The standardized weight band approach (6 to under 12 years) provides appropriate dosing for children in this weight range 1

Administration Guidelines

• Frequency: Every 4 hours as needed 1
• Maximum daily doses: 6 doses (30 mL total) in any 24-hour period 1
• Timing: Space doses at least 4 hours apart to avoid exceeding the maximum daily limit 1

Critical Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not use adult dosing (10 mL/2 teaspoonfuls) simply because the child may appear larger—weight under 40 kg mandates pediatric dosing 3
• Do not exceed 6 doses in 24 hours, as antihistamine overdose can cause significant CNS effects in children 1
• Avoid calculating doses based on mg/kg conversions when FDA-approved age/weight-based dosing is available, as this increases risk of dosing errors 4