Maximum Ibuprofen (Motrin) Dose for Pediatrics
For children ≥6 months, the maximum single dose of ibuprofen is 10 mg/kg per dose, given every 6-8 hours, with a maximum daily dose of 40 mg/kg/day (not to exceed 30-40 mg/kg/day depending on clinical context). 1, 2
Weight-Based Dosing Parameters
- Standard dose: 5-10 mg/kg per dose, administered every 6-8 hours 1, 2
- Maximum single dose: 10 mg/kg 1, 3
- Maximum daily dose: 30-40 mg/kg/day when given 3-4 times daily 2
- Effective therapeutic range: Clinical trials demonstrate 7.5-10 mg/kg is the most effective dose range for fever and pain control 3
Age and Weight Restrictions
- Minimum age: Ibuprofen is generally not recommended for infants under 6 months 1
- Minimum weight: Should only be used in infants with body weight above 5-6 kg 2
- Children >40 kg: Should receive adult dosing 1
Critical Safety Considerations
Hydration status is paramount - special attention must be given to ensuring adequate hydration before and during ibuprofen administration 2. The drug should not be given to patients with diarrhea and vomiting, with or without fever, as dehydration plays an important role in triggering renal damage 4.
Absolute Contraindications:
- Neonates 4
- Children with wheezing and persistent asthma 4
- During varicella infection 4
- Patients sensitive to ibuprofen or other NSAIDs 4
Dosing Frequency and Duration
- Interval: Every 6-8 hours (longer than acetaminophen's 4-6 hour interval) 1
- Duration: Short-term use is considered safe when hydration is maintained 2
- Maximum temperature reduction: Occurs 3-4 hours after administration 3
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Misdosing is extremely common - 26% of parents give inaccurate ibuprofen doses, with infants <1 year at highest risk for dosing errors 5. Weight-based dosing significantly reduces misdosing compared to age-based dosing 5.
Avoid rectal administration - the rectal route has been shown to be less reliable because of erratic absorption, especially in young infants 2.
Do not use as routine antipyretic - ibuprofen should not be used as an antipyretic except in rare cases; it remains the drug of first choice for inflammatory pain in children 4.