Safe Medicine Dosing for Children
Dose by weight, use the right measuring device and know when to call a doctor.
Weight beats age
Doses of acetaminophen and ibuprofen are based on weight, which is more accurate than age. Use the weight from a recent check if possible.
Measure correctly
Use the syringe or cup supplied, not kitchen spoons. Check the concentration on the bottle since infant and children’s products have changed.
Call a doctor
Fever in a baby under 3 months, fever over 3 days, trouble breathing or drowsiness always need medical advice. Never give aspirin to children.
Try it: Children’s Acetaminophen Dose Calculator
Example with sample values. Open the full calculator →
Doses 4–6 hours apart, max 5 doses a day. Call a doctor for any fever in babies under 3 months. Always confirm with the product label or a pharmacist.
Educational content only. This article does not replace advice from a qualified health professional. Medical disclaimer.