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Calculate safe ibuprofen doses for adults and children
This calculator is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and dosing decisions. Do not use this tool to self-prescribe medications. When in doubt, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
| Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Single Dose | Max Daily |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12-17 | 5-7 | 50 mg | 150 mg |
| 18-23 | 8-10 | 75 mg | 225 mg |
| 24-35 | 11-16 | 100 mg | 300 mg |
| 36-47 | 17-21 | 150 mg | 450 mg |
| 48-59 | 22-27 | 200 mg | 600 mg |
| 60-71 | 28-32 | 250 mg | 750 mg |
| 72-95 | 33-43 | 300 mg | 900 mg |
| 96+ | 44+ | 400 mg | 1200 mg |
Based on 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours. Maximum 40 mg/kg/day.
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins. This decreases inflammation, pain, and fever throughout the body.
While ibuprofen can be taken on an empty stomach, it's recommended to take it with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach irritation. If you have a sensitive stomach or history of GI issues, always take with food.
Ibuprofen reduces inflammation, pain, and fever. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) reduces pain and fever but does NOT reduce inflammation. Ibuprofen is better for inflammatory conditions (sprains, arthritis) while acetaminophen is safer for those with stomach issues.
Ibuprofen typically starts working within 20-30 minutes, with peak effects at 1-2 hours. For inflammation, it may take several days of regular use to see full benefits. The pain-relieving effect lasts 4-6 hours.
Short-term use (up to 10 days for pain, 3 days for fever) is generally safe for most people. Long-term daily use increases risk of stomach ulcers, kidney problems, and cardiovascular events. Consult your doctor if you need ibuprofen regularly.
Ibuprofen is NOT recommended for infants under 6 months of age. For babies 6 months and older, use weight-based dosing with infant ibuprofen products. Always consult your pediatrician for infants with fever.
Yes, alternating ibuprofen and acetaminophen is sometimes recommended for fever or pain management, especially in children. This approach can provide more consistent relief while staying within safe limits for each medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific alternating schedules.
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience: