Caring for Your Child Who Took Too Much Ibuprofen

Accidentally taking ibuprofen usually does not have serious effects in kids. However, it is very important to make sure children use this and other medicines safely.

Ibuprofen is a common over-the-counter medicine for fever and pain. When taken in the right dose, ibuprofen is usually safe for kids over 6 months old. Sometimes, though, a child might take an unknown amount of ibuprofen that has been left out or stored in a bottle with a loose cap. Occasionally, a child is accidentally given an incorrect dose by a well-meaning caretaker. If a child takes a high enough overdose of ibuprofen, it can cause damage to the kidneys, intestines, liver, or blood cells.

The health care team watched your child for signs of an ibuprofen overdose and determined that your child did not take a dangerous amount. However, your child might have a little nausea for the next 24 hours.

This is a good time to take steps toward improving medication safety in your home.

• Your child can have a normal diet as tolerated and return to normal activity.

• Talk to your health care provider about when your child can use ibuprofen again safely.

• Reduce the chance of medication overdose:

  • Keep all medicines in a locked cabinet, out of the reach of children.

  • Put medicines away after giving a dose or taking one yourself.

  • Keep purses and handbags that might contain medicines away from kids.

  • Make sure the lids to all medicines are tightly closed.

  • Never tell your kids that medicine "tastes like candy."

  • Always keep medicines in their original containers.

  • Try to be aware of how many pills are left in a bottle.

  • Know which medications you have in your home.

• Always read medicine labels before giving a dose to your child. Make sure you know the right dose and strength to use for your child's age.

• Many cold medicines and some pain medicines contain ibuprofen. Know the ingredients of the medications you use so you only give one containing ibuprofen at a time.

Your child:

• Complains of stomach pain.

• Is vomiting.

• Complains of dizziness or ringing in the ears.

• Is unusually tired.

Your child:

• Has bloody or black stool (poop).

• Has unusually slow, fast, or unsteady breathing.

• Seems less coordinated than usual.

Keep the phone number for Poison Control handy. Calling 1-800-222-1222 anywhere in the country will connect you to the closest center.