Recommended Dosage for Kids Taking Advil
Advil (ibuprofen) dosing for children depends on age, weight, and concentration of the product (typically 100 mg/5 mL suspension). Always use the dosing cup or syringe provided and confirm with the product label or a doctor. General guidelines from the manufacturer and FDA-approved labeling for fever or pain:
| Age/Weight | Dose (100 mg/5 mL) | Frequency | Max Doses in 24 Hours |
|------------|---------------------|-----------|-----------------------|
| 6-11 months (12-17 lbs) | 1.25 mL (50 mg) | Every 6-8 hours | 4 |
| 12-23 months (18-23 lbs) | 1.875 mL (75 mg) | Every 6-8 hours | 4 |
| 2-3 years (24-35 lbs) | 5 mL (100 mg) | Every 6-8 hours | 4 |
| 4-5 years (36-47 lbs) | 7.5 mL (150 mg) | Every 6-8 hours | 4 |
| 6-8 years (48-59 lbs) | 10 mL (200 mg) | Every 6-8 hours | 4 |
| 9-10 years (60-71 lbs) | 12.5 mL (250 mg) | Every 6-8 hours | 4 |
| 11 years (72-95 lbs) | 15 mL (300 mg) | Every 6-8 hours | 4 |
For children over 12 or 95+ lbs, use adult dosing (200-400 mg every 4-6 hours, max 1200 mg/day). Do not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours for kids under 12.[1][2]
Weight-Based Dosing Rule
For precision, base dose on 5-10 mg/kg per dose every 6-8 hours. Max daily: 40 mg/kg. Example: A 20-lb (9 kg) child gets ~45-90 mg per dose (max ~360 mg/day).[2][3]
What Happens If You Give More Than Recommended?
Overdose risks include stomach bleeding, kidney damage, vomiting, drowsiness, or seizures. Call poison control (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency care if exceeded. Symptoms can appear within hours.[3][4]
How Long Between Doses?
Wait at least 6-8 hours. Giving sooner increases overdose risk without added benefit, as ibuprofen peaks in 1-2 hours and lasts 6-8 hours.[2]
Can You Alternate Advil with Tylenol?
Yes, for persistent fever/pain: Alternate ibuprofen (every 6-8 hours) with acetaminophen (every 4-6 hours). Example schedule: Advil at 8 AM, Tylenol at noon, Advil at 4 PM, Tylenol at 8 PM. Track doses carefully; max acetaminophen 75 mg/kg/day. Consult a doctor first.[3][5]
When to Skip or Call a Doctor
Avoid if dehydrated, stomach issues, or allergies. Stop and seek care for rash, breathing issues, or symptoms lasting >3 days. Not for chickenpox or flu symptoms (Reye's syndrome risk). Premature infants or kids under 6 months need doctor approval.[1][4]
[1]: Advil Children's Dosage Chart
[2]: FDA Label: Advil Suspension
[3]: AAP Ibuprofen Dosing Guidelines
[4]: CDC Pain Reliever Safety
[5]: HealthyChildren.org Alternating Meds