Motrin dosage: clear, practical rules for adults and kids

Motrin is a brand name for ibuprofen, a common NSAID for pain, fever, and inflammation. The right dose depends on your age, weight, and health. Below you’ll find easy-to-use dosing rules, quick examples, and simple safety tips so you don’t guess when you reach for Motrin.

Adult dosing — basics and safety

For most adults, the usual over-the-counter Motrin dose is 200–400 mg every 4–6 hours as needed. Don’t take more than 1,200 mg in 24 hours unless a doctor says otherwise. When a healthcare provider supervises treatment, some people may be prescribed up to 2,400 mg per day, but that’s not for routine self-care.

Start with the lowest dose that helps. If 200 mg controls your pain, stick with it. Take Motrin with food or milk to lower the chance of stomach upset. Avoid mixing multiple products that contain ibuprofen — check labels on cold, flu, or multi-symptom medicines.

Watch for red flags: black or bloody stools, severe stomach pain, shortness of breath, swelling, or a rash. If any of these happen, stop the drug and get medical help. If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney problems, or take blood thinners, talk to your doctor before using Motrin.

Children’s dosing & quick examples

Children’s doses are based on weight, not age. A common dosing rule is 5–10 mg per kg of body weight every 6–8 hours as needed. Do not exceed 40 mg/kg in a 24-hour period.

Examples make this simple: a child weighing 15 kg (about 33 lbs) would get 75–150 mg per dose. Many liquid Motrin syringes come in 100 mg/5 mL strength, so that child could get roughly 4–7.5 mL. A 30 kg child (66 lbs) would get 150–300 mg per dose. Always use the dosing tool that comes with the medicine and round to the nearest practical dose — don’t guess.

Never give Motrin to infants under 3 months old without a doctor’s OK. For babies under 6 months, consult your pediatrician before use. If fever or pain lasts more than 48–72 hours despite treatment, see a healthcare provider.

Quick tips: keep doses and times written down, don’t mix with other NSAIDs, and avoid heavy alcohol while taking Motrin. If you’re unsure about a dose or your health conditions could raise risk, call your doctor or pharmacist. Using Motrin the right way gives fast relief without unnecessary harm.