Calculator form
Enter age, weight, and product strengths. The page stays single-column overall, while the form uses a responsive 3-column, 2-column, then 1-column grid.
Example data table
These are sample rows for illustration only. They are not personal recommendations.
| Example | Age | Weight | Reference basis | Single dose | Liquid at 100 mg/5 mL | Schedule | Daily maximum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child A | 4 years | 18 kg | 10 mg/kg | 180 mg | 9.0 mL | Every 6 to 8 hours | 720 mg/day |
| Child B | 8 years | 30 kg | 7.5 mg/kg | 225 mg | 11.25 mL | Every 6 to 8 hours | 1200 mg/day |
| Adult C | 16 years | 58 kg | Adult OTC 200 mg | 200 mg | 10.0 mL | Every 6 hours | 1200 mg/day |
Formula used
Weight conversion
Weight in kg = Weight in lb × 0.45359237
Pediatric reference
Minimum single dose = 5 × weight(kg)
Selected single dose = target mg/kg × weight(kg)
Maximum single dose = 10 × weight(kg)
Per-dose cap = 400 mg
Daily maximum = 40 × weight(kg)
Liquid conversion
mg per mL = (mg per 5 mL) ÷ 5
mL per dose = dose(mg) ÷ mg per mL
Adult OTC reference
Single dose range = 200 to 400 mg
Interval = every 4 to 6 hours
Daily maximum = 1200 mg
Tablet equivalent
Tablet count = dose(mg) ÷ tablet strength(mg)
How to use this calculator
- Enter age and choose months or years.
- Enter weight and select kilograms or pounds.
- Type the liquid strength shown on the bottle, such as 100 mg per 5 mL.
- Choose a tablet strength if you want an equivalent tablet estimate.
- For children under 12, select a pediatric mg/kg target and 6- or 8-hour interval.
- For ages 12 and older, choose the adult OTC single dose and dosing interval.
- Review the result shown above the form, including dose range, liquid volume, daily limit, and chart.
- Download the calculation as CSV or PDF for record keeping.
Frequently asked questions
1. Does this calculator prescribe ibuprofen?
No. It gives a general reference estimate from common dosing rules. Personal conditions, diagnosis, hydration, kidney function, pregnancy, and concurrent medicines can change what is safe.
2. Why does the page block routine use under 6 months?
Because routine ibuprofen use in children younger than 6 months should not be estimated here. Infants in that age group need clinician-specific guidance and product labeling review.
3. Why does pediatric dosing use weight?
Weight-based dosing helps match the amount to body size. That is why the calculator converts pounds to kilograms and applies mg-per-kg formulas before showing dose ranges and liquid volume.
4. Can I rely on tablet equivalents for children?
Liquid products are often more practical for children because they allow more accurate measured volumes. Tablet splitting may be imprecise and some tablets are not intended to be split.
5. What does daily maximum mean?
It is the upper 24-hour limit used by the calculator. Even if a single dose looks acceptable, repeated dosing can become unsafe if the total amount in one day exceeds the cap.
6. When should ibuprofen be avoided or reviewed first?
Seek advice first for kidney disease, dehydration, stomach ulcer or bleeding history, pregnancy, blood thinner use, NSAID allergy, or prior wheezing after ibuprofen or similar medicines.
7. Why are adult numbers labeled OTC reference?
Because this page intentionally reflects nonprescription-style limits. Prescription regimens may differ and should be set only by a licensed clinician who knows the patient and diagnosis.
8. What should I do if symptoms are severe or unusual?
Get urgent medical help for breathing trouble, swelling, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, fainting, confusion, or suspected overdose. Do not wait for the calculator alone.