Pediatric Medication Dosing Guidelines
Weight-based dosing is more accurate than age-based dosing for children. Always use the measuring device that comes with the medication, never a household spoon.
Key Safety Rules
- Acetaminophen: 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours. No more than 5 doses in 24 hours.
- Ibuprofen: 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours. Not for babies under 6 months.
- Diphenhydramine: 1-1.25 mg/kg every 6 hours. Not for children under 2 without doctor approval.
- Never give aspirin to children (risk of Reye's syndrome)
- Do not combine medications without consulting a doctor
When to Call the Doctor
Contact your pediatrician if fever persists more than 3 days, if your child is under 3 months with any fever, or if symptoms worsen despite medication.