What is the recommended maximum daily dose of advil for kids?

Recommended daily limits for children's ibuprofen

Pediatric dosing for Advil is calculated by weight, not age. Children 6 months and older receive 5 to 10 mg per kg of body weight every 6 to 8 hours. The total daily amount should not exceed 40 mg per kg, which equals roughly 800 mg for a 20 kg child.

Parents commonly ask how this limit changes with age. For 2- to 5-year-olds the label caps single doses at 100 mg and daily totals at 400 mg; for 6- to 11-year-olds single doses rise to 200 mg and daily totals to 800 mg.

Why weight-based limits matter
Exceeding the daily cap can raise the risk of stomach irritation or kidney strain, especially in dehydrated children. The 40 mg per kg ceiling is set to keep blood levels within a safe range while still controlling fever or pain.

What happens if a child receives an extra dose
If an extra dose is given by mistake, contact a poison-control center or pediatrician immediately. Symptoms to watch for include vomiting, stomach pain, or unusual tiredness.

How Advil compares with children's Tylenol
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can both be used, but they are not interchangeable. Some parents alternate doses for persistent fever; this approach should be cleared with a doctor first.

When does the limit change to adult dosing
At age 12 or roughly 40 kg (88 lb), most children can follow the adult maximum of 1,200 mg per day sold over the counter. Prescription doses may go higher under medical supervision.