Ibuprofen is a widely used over-the-counter medication for children’s discomforts. This article provides guidance on its safe and effective administration, emphasizing proper dosing and important safety considerations.
Ibuprofen Basics for Children
Ibuprofen belongs to a class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). For children, it reduces fever and alleviates minor aches and pains, including discomfort from the common cold, flu, sore throats, headaches, and toothaches.
Ibuprofen works by blocking specific substances in the body that contribute to inflammation, pain, and fever. While it shares some uses with acetaminophen, ibuprofen acts through a different mechanism to provide relief.
Safe Dosing and Frequency
Administering the correct dose of ibuprofen is important for a child’s safety and the medication’s effectiveness. Dosage for children is primarily determined by their weight, not their age. Always consult the specific product instructions or a healthcare professional for precise dosing tailored to your child’s weight.
A child’s dose of ibuprofen generally ranges from 5 to 10 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per dose. The medication can typically be given every 6 to 8 hours as needed, not exceeding four doses within a 24-hour period.
When giving the medication, use the dosing device provided with the product, such as a syringe or dosing cup, rather than household spoons, which can be inaccurate. Shaking liquid formulations well before use helps ensure even distribution. Giving ibuprofen with food or milk can help reduce stomach upset.
For fever or pain, children aged 6 months or older should not be given ibuprofen for more than three days without consulting a doctor. If a baby between 3 and 5 months old is prescribed ibuprofen, medical advice should be sought if there is no improvement within 24 hours or if symptoms worsen.
Important Considerations and When to Consult a Doctor
There are specific situations when ibuprofen should be avoided or used with caution in children. It is not recommended for infants under 6 months of age unless advised by a doctor. Children with known allergies to ibuprofen or aspirin should not take it.
Ibuprofen should also be avoided in children with certain medical conditions, including kidney disease, severe dehydration, or a history of gastrointestinal bleeding. Children with asthma may experience worsening symptoms, and those with chickenpox may have rare serious side effects. Discuss any other medications your child is taking with a healthcare provider, as ibuprofen can interact with drugs like blood thinners or other NSAIDs.
While generally well-tolerated, ibuprofen can cause side effects. Common, mild reactions include stomach upset, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These can often be minimized by giving the medication with food.
Parents should seek medical attention if their child experiences severe stomach pain, vomits blood, or has black or tarry stools, as these could indicate a stomach ulcer or bleeding. Other serious, though rare, side effects that warrant immediate medical consultation include signs of kidney problems like decreased urination, or allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
A doctor should be contacted if a child’s fever lasts more than three days, or more than 24 hours for children under two years old. Medical advice is also necessary if pain worsens or does not improve, or if there are signs of dehydration like reduced urination or dry mouth. Any unusual symptoms, such as severe headache, stiff neck, or extreme drowsiness, should prompt a call to a healthcare provider. The medication should be stored between 68° to 77°F (20° to 25°C).