Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation, pain, and fever by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes.
Dosage by Body Weight
Pediatric ibuprofen references commonly use 5-10 mg/kg per dose every 6-8 hours for eligible children. Avoid use in infants below the locally approved minimum age/weight unless prescribed, and avoid dehydration, kidney disease, or NSAID allergy situations.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Infant use requires clinician assessment and local guideline confirmation.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 25-70 mg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 6-8 hours if eligible
- Tracking Notes
- Confirm minimum age and suitability before administration.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 40-100 mg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 6-8 hours if eligible
- Tracking Notes
- Give with food or milk if stomach irritation occurs.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 55-150 mg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 6-8 hours if eligible
- Tracking Notes
- Avoid combining with other NSAIDs.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 80-200 mg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 6-8 hours if eligible
- Tracking Notes
- Track the maximum daily dose recommended locally.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Infant use requires clinician assessment and local guideline confirmation. |
| 5-7 kg | 25-70 mg per dose | Every 6-8 hours if eligible | Confirm minimum age and suitability before administration. |
| 8-10 kg | 40-100 mg per dose | Every 6-8 hours if eligible | Give with food or milk if stomach irritation occurs. |
| 11-15 kg | 55-150 mg per dose | Every 6-8 hours if eligible | Avoid combining with other NSAIDs. |
| 16-20 kg | 80-200 mg per dose | Every 6-8 hours if eligible | Track the maximum daily dose recommended locally. |
Formulation
Purpose
Anti-inflammatory, pain relief, and fever reduction. Used for headaches, dental pain, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, and arthritis.
Generic Name
IbuprofenBranded Drug Names
Ibuprofen is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONAlcohol can increase stomach irritation and bleeding risk while taking ibuprofen. Avoid or limit alcohol, especially with repeated doses.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONIbuprofen should generally be avoided during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed, especially after 20 weeks due to fetal kidney and circulation risks.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDIbuprofen is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding at usual doses, but use it as directed by a healthcare provider.
Driving
SAFEIbuprofen usually does not affect driving. Avoid driving if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or feel unwell.
Liver
CAUTIONPeople with liver disease should use ibuprofen only with medical advice because NSAIDs may increase bleeding and fluid-related risks.
Kidney
CAUTIONIbuprofen can reduce kidney blood flow and may worsen kidney disease or dehydration. Avoid use unless prescribed if kidney function is impaired.