Ibuprofen (sold as Motrin or Advil) is an effective fever reducer and pain reliever for children — but it has important age restrictions and different dosing than acetaminophen. This guide covers weight-based dosing following standard pediatric guidelines.
Quick answer: Ibuprofen is dosed at 5-10 mg per kilogram of body weight, given every 6-8 hours as needed, with a maximum of 4 doses in 24 hours. It should not be given to infants under 6 months old.
Use our free dosage calculator for your child’s specific weight.
Ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) Dosage Chart
| Weight | Age (approx.) | Dose | Infant Drops (50mg/1.25mL) | Children’s Liquid (100mg/5mL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12-17 lbs | 6-11 months | 50 mg | 1.25 mL | — |
| 18-23 lbs | 12-23 months | 75 mg | 1.875 mL | 3.75 mL |
| 24-35 lbs | 2-3 years | 100 mg | — | 5 mL |
| 36-47 lbs | 4-5 years | 150 mg | — | 7.5 mL |
| 48-59 lbs | 6-8 years | 200 mg | — | 10 mL |
| 60-71 lbs | 9-10 years | 250 mg | — | 12.5 mL |
| 72-95 lbs | 11-12 years | 300 mg | — | 15 mL |
Critical Safety Rules
- Do NOT give to infants under 6 months — their kidneys cannot process ibuprofen safely
- Maximum 4 doses in 24 hours (fewer than acetaminophen)
- Wait at least 6 hours between doses
- Give with food when possible to reduce stomach irritation
- Avoid if your child is dehydrated — ibuprofen can stress the kidneys when fluid intake is low
Ibuprofen vs. Acetaminophen: Key Differences
| Acetaminophen (Tylenol) | Ibuprofen (Motrin) | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | Birth (with doctor’s OK) | 6 months |
| Dosing interval | Every 4-6 hours | Every 6-8 hours |
| Max daily doses | 5 | 4 |
| Anti-inflammatory | No | Yes |
| Give with food? | Not required | Recommended |
For persistent fevers, many pediatricians recommend alternating between the two medications for more consistent fever control.
When Ibuprofen May Be Better
Ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory properties that acetaminophen lacks. It may be a better choice for:
- Ear infections — reduces inflammation around the eardrum
- Teething pain — addresses both pain and gum inflammation
- Sore throat — reduces swelling alongside pain
- Musculoskeletal pain — strains, sprains, growing pains
When to Avoid Ibuprofen
Do not give ibuprofen if your child:
- Is under 6 months old
- Has a known kidney condition
- Is significantly dehydrated (vomiting, not drinking)
- Has a bleeding disorder
- Is allergic to NSAIDs
Not sure which medication to use? TriageNest’s triage engine considers your child’s age, symptoms, and specific situation to recommend the most appropriate approach. Get started free.
This guide follows standard pediatric dosing practices. Always confirm with your pediatrician, especially for first-time use or if your child has any medical conditions.
