Printed on 2/13/2026
For informational purposes only. This is not medical advice.
Pediatric drug dosing is predominantly weight-based, as children's bodies process medications differently from adults. This calculator determines the appropriate single and daily dose based on the patient's weight, the medication's recommended dose per kilogram, and the dosing frequency. Accurate weight-based dosing is critical to prevent both under-dosing and toxicity in children.
Formula: Single dose = Weight (kg) × Dose per kg; Daily dose = Single dose × Frequency
Disclaimer: This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health.
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Children are not just small adults — their organ function, body composition, and drug metabolism differ significantly. Weight-based dosing ensures the correct dose relative to body size. Underdosing leads to treatment failure; overdosing can cause toxicity. Always verify doses against age-appropriate references.
For most medications, use actual body weight. For obese children (>95th percentile BMI), some drugs should be dosed on ideal body weight or adjusted body weight to avoid toxicity. Always check the specific medication's prescribing guidelines.
Pediatric doses calculated by weight should not exceed the usual adult dose for that medication. Always check the maximum single and daily dose. For example, ibuprofen is dosed at 10 mg/kg per dose, but the max single dose is 400–600 mg regardless of weight.
Always cross-reference with: the medication package insert, a pediatric drug reference (Lexicomp, Harriet Lane Handbook), hospital formulary guidelines, and have a pharmacist review for high-risk medications. Double-check units (mg vs mcg) and decimal places.