Who can and cannot take ibuprofen for children

Most babies and children aged 3 months and over who weigh at least 5kg (11lb) can have ibuprofen for children.

Younger babies aged 1 month to 3 months can have ibuprofen for children, only if a doctor prescribes it.

Some types of ibuprofen that you buy without a prescription are only suitable for children aged 7 years and over. Other types, including tablets, are only suitable for children aged 12 years and over.

Check the packaging or leaflet to make sure the medicine is suitable for your child. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure.

Ibuprofen is not suitable for some children. To make sure it's safe for your child, check with a pharmacist or doctor before giving ibuprofen if your child:

• has ever had an allergic reaction to ibuprofen or any other medicine
• has asthma
• has ever had stomach, heart, liver or kidney problems
• has a health problem that means they have an increased risk of bleeding
• has an inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
• has any signs of dehydration
• is small or big for their age, as a lower or higher dose may be recommended

Do not give ibuprofen for chickenpox unless it has been recommended by a doctor. It can cause a serious skin reaction.