When to Use: Treatment of allergic reactions, nasal allergies, hives and itching.
How to Use Dose Table: Find the child’s weight in the top row of the dose table. Look below the correct weight for the dose based on the product you have.
| Child’s weight (pounds) | 20-24 | 25-37 | 38-49 | 50-99 | 100+ | lbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liquid 12.5 mg/ 5 milliliters (mL) | 4 | 5 | 7.5 | 10 | – | mL |
| Liquid 12.5 mg/ 1 teaspoon (tsp) | ¾ | 1 | 1½ | 2 | – | tsp |
| Chewable 12.5 mg | – | 1 | 1½ | 2 | 4 | tabs |
| Tablets 25 mg | – | ½ | ½ | 1 | 2 | tabs |
| Capsules 25 mg | – | – | – | 1 | 2 | caps |
Table Notes:
Age Limits: For allergies, don’t use under 1 year of age. Reason: it causes most babies to be sleepy. For colds, not advised at any age. Reason: no proven benefits. It should not be given if under 4 years old. If under 6 years, don’t give products with more than one ingredient in them (FDA recommendation 2008).
Measuring Dose: Syringes and droppers are more accurate than teaspoons. If possible, use the syringe or dropper that comes with the medicine. If not, you can get a med syringe at drug stores. If you use a teaspoon, it should be a measuring spoon. Reason: regular spoons are not reliable. Keep in mind 1 level teaspoon equals 5 mL and that ½ teaspoon equals 2.5 mL.
How Often: Repeat every 6 hours as needed.
Children’s Benadryl Fastmelts: Each fastmelt tablet equals 12.5 mg. They are dosed the same as chewable tablets.
Use in Countries Outside the U.S.: Dose tables are based on U.S. products. Concentrations may vary in countries outside the U.S. Always check the concentration is the same before using this dose table.