Calpol & ibuprofen dose calculator
When is the next dose due?
Enter the time you gave the last dose. We'll show the earliest the next one is allowed.
Powered by Dosey — the medicine tracker for parents ↗
How to use this calculator
Pick the medicine and your child's age. The calculator shows the standard single dose for that age band, the maximum number of doses in 24 hours, and the minimum gap between them — straight from the NHS guidance and product labels. The numbers match our detailed guides: the Calpol dose by age chart and ibuprofen for children.
The rules that don't change
- Calpol (paracetamol): max 4 doses in 24 hours, at least 4 hours apart. A dose lasts 4–6 hours. See how many doses of Calpol in 24 hours.
- Ibuprofen: max 3 doses in 24 hours (some ages 3–4), at least 6 hours apart, always with or after food.
- Babies: ibuprofen only from 3 months and over 5kg; paracetamol under 3 months only on a doctor's advice. See can babies have ibuprofen?
- Combining the two: they can be alternated under certain rules — see Calpol and ibuprofen together.
Why we don't just say "give this much." Dosey is a logging tool, not a clinic. Bottle strengths differ between brands and sizes, and your child's weight matters too. This calculator surfaces the official reference figures to save you squinting at the label at 3am — but the label and your pharmacist are the final word.
Frequently asked questions
How much Calpol can I give by age?
For Calpol Infant (120mg/5ml): 3–6 months 2.5ml, 6 months–2 years 5ml, 2–4 years 7.5ml, 4–6 years 10ml. For Calpol 6+ (250mg/5ml): 6–8 years 5ml, 8–10 years 7.5ml, 10–12 years 10ml. Up to 4 times a day, 4 hours apart.
How much ibuprofen can I give a child?
For 100mg/5ml ibuprofen: 3–6 months 2.5ml (over 5kg only), 6–12 months 2.5ml, 1–3 years 5ml, 4–6 years 7.5ml, 7–9 years 10ml. Up to 3 times a day, 6 hours apart, with food.
Is this medical advice?
No — it's a reference reproduction of NHS/label dosing to help with timing. Always check your bottle and ask a pharmacist if unsure.
Can I print a dose log?
Yes — we have a free printable medicine dose log you can stick on the fridge.
Sources
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