Common Medications for Kids
Fever, pain, and allergies are common concerns in childhood, and parents often turn to over-the-counter medications for relief. Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and Zyrtec are widely used and can be safe and effective when given correctly. The information below highlights important dosing guidelines, age considerations, and safety tips every parent should know. Always read labels carefully, measure doses accurately, and consult your pediatrician with any questions.
Tylenol
Can be used in children and infants of all ages
Dosing is based on the child’s weight, not just age.
Can be given every 4-6 hours for fever or pain/discomfort
Do not exceed 5 doses in 24 hours.
If your child is under 12 weeks old, consult a doctor before giving any medication.
Double-check concentration: Most children's Tylenol is 160 mg/5 mL, but always verify.
Don’t mix with other medications that contain acetaminophen.
Store out of reach of children. Tylenol overdoses can be dangerous.
Ibuprofen
Only for children 6 months and older
Dosing is based on the child’s weight, not just age.
Every 6–8 hours as needed for fever or pain/discomfort
Do NOT exceed 4 doses in 24 hours
There are 2 different concentrations. It is important to know which one you have in order to calculate the dose.
Infant concentrated ibuprofen/Motrin 50mg/1.25mL
Children’s ibuprofen/Motrin 100mg/5mL
Store out of reach of children
Zyrtec/Cetirizine
Cetirizine is the preferred medication for allergies in children. Choose Cetirizine over Benadryl in most circumstances. Cetirizine causes less drowsiness and has fewer adverse effects than Benadryl.
Zyrtec is an antihistamine used to treat:
Seasonal allergies (hay fever)
Year-round allergies (dust mites, pet dander, mold)
Hives and itchy skin
Approved for children 6 months and older
The liquid form concentration is 5mg/5mL (1mg/1mL)
6 months – 23 months: Give 2.5mL or 2.5mg once daily. Max dose of 5mg per day if needed.
2 years-5 years: Started at 2.5mg or 2.5mL daily. Increase to 5mg or 5mL daily if needed.
6 years and older: 5-10mg once daily.
Keep out of reach of children.
