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Paracetamol and Ibuprofen Doses for Children by Weight

Enter a child’s weight to see paracetamol and ibuprofen doses in mg and mL.

By Dr Amer Sheikh, GP Updated 17 October 2026 Clinical review pending

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Doses

MedicineDoseFrequency
Paracetamol15 mg/kg per dose (max 1 g)Every 4–6 hours, max 4 doses in 24 hours
Ibuprofen5–10 mg/kg per dose3–4 times daily, max 30 mg/kg a day

The BNFC and product labels use age bands. Check both, and check the child is not taking another paracetamol-containing product.

Ibuprofen is not recommended under 5 kg or under 3 months. Use one medicine first; alternate only if distress persists (NICE NG143).

Frequently asked questions

How much Calpol for a child by weight?

Paracetamol 15 mg/kg per dose, up to four times in 24 hours.

Can I give paracetamol and ibuprofen together?

Use one first. NICE suggests alternating only if distress persists or recurs before the next dose.

When should ibuprofen be avoided?

Under 3 months or 5 kg, and in some children with asthma or dehydration.

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References

  1. BNF for Children. Paracetamol; Ibuprofen. bnfc.nice.org.uk
  2. NICE. Fever in under 5s. NG143. nice.org.uk/guidance/ng143

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