Pediatrician Questions Pediatrician

What pain medicine can I give a child with a headache?

My 7 year old daughter has headaches sometimes. What pain medicine can I give a child with a headache?

3 Answers

Ibuprofen works well. Just take it with food to avoid an upset stomach.
Medication for headaches are often given to children. The two most used medications are acetaminophen (Tylenol, and others) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others). The dosages of the two are different, the strength of the liquid is different and the interval to give them is different. Please consult your physician to get the correct dose based the weight (in kilograms) so that the proper dose is used. Under dosing does not help the pain, and over dosing can be dangerous. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be given every 4 hours. Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) is every 6 hours.It is imperative that you get the right medication, strength, and dosing interval.

Dr. K

Tylenol or motrin will be fine, but if you are having to give it frequently, she needs to be checked to help find the cause of the headaches.