Listed below are dosing recommendations for some commonly used medications.  All doses are determined by weight, not by age.  Not all of these medications are recommended at all ages; see details below.
 
If you have any questions as to the correct dosage, please call us and speak to a nurse or clinician in order to confirm.  In addition, be sure not to mix medicines containing the same active ingredients, such as Motrin with Advil Cold and Sinus.  This will help to avoid overdoses and side effects.

Finally, NEVER give any medicines to infants under 2 months of age without speaking to a physician first.

Ibuprofen is a pain-reliever, fever reducer, and anti-inflammatory.  It should be given as needed, at the dosages listed below, every 6-8 hours.
Please note, it is NOT recommended under 6 months of age.

Acetaminophen is a pain-reliever and fever reducer.  It can be given every 4-6 hours.  Please note that we no longer recommend routine administration of Acetaminophen at the time of vaccines, as was often done in the past.  Some studies suggest the vaccines may be slightly less effective when Tylenol is given prior to vaccination.  However, if your child is uncomfortable following vaccines, giving a dose of Tylenol is acceptable.

Diphenhydramine is available without a prescription to use for allergic reactions, hives, and itching.  It can be given, as needed, every 6 to 8 hours.  However, if your child is showing signs of a significant allergic reaction, pleasecall us immediately in addition to administering this medication.  Common side effects include fatigue or drowsiness.

For children under 2 years of age, Elm Street Pediatrics does not recommend the use of cold medicines, including decongestants or cough suppressants.  It is unclear whether these products have much benefit and recent studies show that there may be risks associated with these products, especially for younger children. 
For children over 2 years of age, if you choose to use these products, please visit the manufacturer's websites for recommended dosages and for more information on their products. Some common brands include Pediacare, Triaminic, Dimetapp, and Robitussin.

NOTE: Aspirin is NOT RECOMMENDED for children and adolescents (through age 21).  According to some studies, it has been linked to a potentially fatal disease known as Reye's Syndrome when used to treat fevers in children.  If Aspirin has been recommended for your child, please discuss these concerns with your physician.