Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Dosage Table
| Child's weight more than (pounds) |
20 |
25 |
38 |
50 |
100 |
lbs. |
| Total amount (mg) |
10 |
12.5 |
19 |
25 |
50 |
mg |
| Liquid 12.5mg/5ml (tsp) |
¾ |
1 |
1½ |
2 |
-- |
tsp |
| Chewable 12.5 mg |
-- |
1 |
1½ |
2 |
4 |
tablets |
| Capsules 25 mg |
-- |
-- |
-- |
1 |
2 |
caps |
Indications: Treatment of allergic reactions, nasal allergies, hives and itching.
- AGE LIMITS: For allergies, don't use under 1 year of age (Reason: it's a sedative) For colds, not recommended at any age (Reason: no proven benefits) and should be avoided if under 4 years old. Avoid multi-ingredient products in children under 6 years of age (Reason: FDA recommendations 10/2008).
- DOSAGE: Determine by finding your child's weight in the top row of the dosage table.
- FREQUENCY: Repeat every 6-8 hours as needed
- ADULT DOSAGE: 50 mg
- CHILDREN’S BENADRYL FASTMELTS: Each fastmelt tablet contains the equivalent of 12.5 mg of Diphenhydramine HCL and dosed the same as chewable tablets
Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.
Content Set: Pediatric HouseCalls Online
Pediatric HouseCalls Online
