Motrin, a brand name for ibuprofen, is a commonly used over-the-counter medication. It helps alleviate fever and minor pain in children. Administering the correct dosage is important for children, given their smaller size and developing bodily systems.
Finding the Right Dosage
Motrin dosage for children relies on body weight, not age. A five-year-old’s weight varies, making weight a more accurate basis for dosage. Ibuprofen dosage is generally 4 to 10 milligrams per kilogram of body weight for a single dose.
Children’s Motrin oral suspension contains 100 milligrams of ibuprofen per 5 milliliters of liquid. For a five-year-old weighing between 36 to 47 pounds (16.4 to 21.7 kilograms), a common dose would be around 150 milligrams. This translates to about 7.5 milliliters.
Always consult the product packaging for specific dosage instructions, which include a chart correlating weight or age with the appropriate dose. If uncertain about the correct dosage, consult a pediatrician or pharmacist for guidance.
Safe Administration Practices
Accurate measurement is fundamental when administering liquid Motrin. Always use the measuring device provided, such as a dosing syringe or cup, as household spoons are not precise. Before each use, shake the liquid suspension well to ensure even distribution.
A single dose of Motrin can be given every 6 to 8 hours as needed for fever or pain. Do not exceed four doses within a 24-hour period. Administering the medication with food or milk can help minimize stomach upset.
Important Safety Considerations
Caution or avoidance of Motrin is required in certain situations or medical conditions. Do not give it to a child with a known allergy to ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), causing hives, facial swelling, or breathing difficulties. Interactions can occur with other medications, including blood thinners such as warfarin, certain blood pressure drugs, steroids, lithium, or methotrexate.
Motrin may be unsafe for children with pre-existing conditions like asthma, kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems. Children who are dehydrated or have experienced fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhea should also avoid this medication. Strictly adhere to the recommended dose and frequency; exceeding limits can lead to adverse effects, including stomach or intestinal damage.
Monitoring for Effects and When to Seek Help
After administering Motrin, a positive response involves a reduction in fever and pain relief, beginning within 20 to 30 minutes. Mild side effects, such as minor stomach upset, nausea, gas, or bloating, can sometimes occur.
However, certain signs warrant immediate medical attention. These include severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, significant swelling) or signs of stomach bleeding (bloody or tarry stools, vomiting resembling coffee grounds). Other concerning symptoms are severe stomach pain, unusual bleeding or bruising, vision changes, shortness of breath, rapid weight gain with swelling, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Contact a doctor if fever or pain persists or worsens after three days of treatment, if any new concerning symptoms develop, or if a severe or persistent sore throat occurs, especially with high fever or other severe symptoms.