Pediatric Weight & Drug Dose Calculator

Calculate pediatric weight-based drug doses and emergency weight estimation by age.

Child's weight (kg) (kg)

If unknown, age-based estimate below

Age (years, for weight estimate) (years)

APLS formula: weight = 2(age+4) for 1-10y

Drug dose (mg/kg) (mg/kg)

e.g. Paracetamol: 15 mg/kg, Ibuprofen: 10 mg/kg

Max single dose (mg) (mg)

Adult maximum dose

Please check your inputs and try again.

Worked Examples

Example 1: 20 kg child, paracetamol 15 mg/kg

20×15=300mg, max=1000mg

Result: 300 mg dose

Oral paracetamol for pediatric pain/fever

Example 2: Age 8y estimate, ibuprofen 10 mg/kg

APLS: 2(8+4)=24kg; 24×10=240mg

Result: 240 mg (verify with actual weight!)

Age-based estimate only for emergencies

Frequently Asked Questions

When to use age-based weight estimates?

Only in emergencies when actual weight is unavailable (e.g., resuscitation). APLS formula (2×(age+4)) for 1-10 years. Always verify with actual weight as soon as possible.

What is the most common pediatric dosing error?

Weight-based dosing errors — 10-fold dose errors from decimal misplacement are well-documented. Always double-check: mg/kg × kg = total mg. Use standardized drug reference for each medication.