Diphenhydramine, commonly known as Benadryl®, is an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine used to alleviate allergic reactions, hives, and nasal allergies in children. While readily available without a prescription, it’s crucial to understand the correct dosage of children’s Benadryl by weight to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Understanding Benadryl Dosage for Children
Determining the appropriate children’s Benadryl dosage by weight is essential. Giving too little may not provide relief, while too much can lead to adverse side effects. Always consult with a pediatrician or healthcare professional before administering any medication to your child, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
alt: Benadryl dosage chart by weight for children, showing milligrams (mg) and milliliters (mL)
Benadryl Dosage Chart by Weight
The following dosage chart provides a general guideline for children’s Benadryl dosage by weight. This chart is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always confirm with your doctor before giving Benadryl to your child.
| Weight (lbs) | Dosage (mg) | Dosage (mL – 12.5mg/5mL) |
|---|---|---|
| 20-25 | 6.25 | 2.5 |
| 26-31 | 6.25-12.5 | 2.5-5 |
| 32-37 | 12.5 | 5 |
| 38-43 | 12.5-18.75 | 5-7.5 |
| 44-49 | 18.75 | 7.5 |
| 50-55 | 18.75-25 | 7.5-10 |
| 56-61 | 25 | 10 |
| 62-67 | 25-31.25 | 10-12.5 |
| 68-73 | 31.25 | 12.5 |
| 74-79 | 31.25-37.5 | 12.5-15 |
| 80-85 | 37.5 | 15 |
| 86-91 | 37.5-43.75 | 15-17.5 |
| 92-97 | 43.75 | 17.5 |
| 98+ | 43.75-50 | 17.5-20 |
Important Considerations:
- Age: Do not administer diphenhydramine to children under 6 years of age unless specifically directed by a doctor. Safer alternatives like loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), or fexofenadine (Allegra) are available over-the-counter and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
- Concentration: Benadryl comes in different concentrations (e.g., 12.5mg/5mL). Carefully check the product label to ensure accurate dosing.
- Measuring: Use a proper measuring device, such as a syringe or medicine cup, to administer the correct amount of liquid medication. Kitchen teaspoons or tablespoons are not accurate. Obtain a suitable measuring tool from your pharmacist if one is not provided.
- Frequency: Diphenhydramine can be given every 6 hours as needed.
- Adult Dose: The typical adult dose of diphenhydramine is 50 mg.
Potential Side Effects
Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness in children. However, some children may experience the opposite effect, becoming more excited or active. Because of its sedative effects, caution should be exercised when driving or operating heavy machinery after taking diphenhydramine, particularly for teenagers.
Alternatives to Benadryl for Children
While Benadryl is a common choice for allergies, it’s not always the best option for children. Consider these alternatives:
- Loratadine (Claritin): A non-drowsy antihistamine that lasts for 24 hours.
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Another non-drowsy antihistamine, but may cause some mild drowsiness in some children.
- Fexofenadine (Allegra): A non-drowsy antihistamine that also lasts for 24 hours.
alt: Close-up view of the Benadryl dosage table, highlighting the relationship between child’s weight and recommended dosage
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact your doctor if:
- Your child’s symptoms do not improve after taking Benadryl.
- Your child experiences any unusual or severe side effects.
- You are unsure about the correct dosage.
- Your child has underlying health conditions or is taking other medications.
Conclusion
Knowing how much children’s Benadryl by weight to administer is crucial for safe and effective allergy relief. Always double-check the dosage chart, use a proper measuring device, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Consider non-drowsy alternatives like loratadine, cetirizine, or fexofenadine, especially during the day. Your child’s health and safety should always be the top priority.
