Ibuprofen Dose Estimator
Use this tool to estimate typical over-the-counter ibuprofen dosing ranges. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace your doctor, pharmacist, or poison control.
What this ibuprofen calculator does
This calculator gives a quick estimate of common ibuprofen dose ranges based on age group and body weight. For children, ibuprofen is generally weight-based. For adults and teens, dosing is usually fixed (for example, 200 to 400 mg per dose).
The goal is simple: help you translate milligrams into practical amounts (like tablets or milliliters) so you can double-check your math before giving a dose.
How ibuprofen dosing usually works
Adults and teens (12+ years)
- Typical OTC single dose: 200–400 mg
- Typical interval: every 4–6 hours as needed
- Typical OTC max in 24 hours: 1,200 mg unless a clinician instructs otherwise
Children (6 months to 11 years)
- Typical single dose range: 5–10 mg per kg of body weight
- Usual interval: every 6–8 hours
- Daily max: usually 40 mg/kg/day, often with a practical OTC cap and no more than 4 doses in 24 hours
How to use this calculator safely
- Select child or adult/teen mode.
- Enter age if known (optional but useful for warnings).
- Enter weight and choose kg or lb (required for child mode).
- Select formulation: tablet/capsule or liquid.
- Set the product strength from your medication label.
- Click Calculate and compare with your bottle/package directions.
Important safety reminders
Do not double up NSAIDs
Ibuprofen is an NSAID. Avoid combining it with other NSAIDs (such as naproxen) unless your clinician says to do so.
Check active ingredients
Many cold/flu products already contain pain relievers. Read labels to prevent accidental overdose.
Use extra caution if there is a medical history
- Kidney disease
- Stomach ulcers or GI bleeding
- Blood thinner use
- Heart disease or uncontrolled blood pressure
- Pregnancy (especially later pregnancy)
Young infants
Ibuprofen is generally not used in babies under 6 months unless specifically instructed by a pediatric clinician.
When to get medical help fast
- Accidental extra doses or unknown amount taken
- Severe vomiting, black stools, severe stomach pain, or bloody vomit
- Trouble breathing, swelling, or rash after a dose
- Dehydration or very little urination
In the U.S., you can contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance.
Bottom line
An ibuprofen calculator is a helpful math tool, but it is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always match your final dose to the product label and your clinician’s instructions, especially for children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.