| Child's weight (pounds) |
16-31 |
32-47 |
48-63 |
64-79 |
80-95 |
96-129 |
130+ |
lbs |
| Liquid 5 mg/5 ml (tsp) |
½ |
1 |
1½ |
2 |
2½ |
3 |
-- |
tsp |
| Liquid 7.5 mg/5 ml (tsp) |
-- |
-- |
1 |
1 |
1½ |
2 |
3 |
tsp |
| Liquid 10 mg/5 ml (tsp) |
-- |
-- |
-- |
1 |
1 |
1½ |
2 |
tsp |
Indication:
Cough suppressant. Dextromethorphan (DM) is present in most cough syrups.
Table Notes:
- AGE LIMIT: Don’t use under 4 years of age. Over 4 years of age: NOT recommended as primary treatment of cough. Use honey instead. Avoid multi-ingredient products in children under 6 years of age. (Reason: FDA recommendations 10/2008).
- DOSAGE: Determine by finding child's weight in the top row of the dosage table.
- ADULT DOSE: 20 mg
- FREQUENCY: Repeat every 6-8 hours as needed
- MEASURING the DOSAGE: Syringes and droppers are more accurate than
teaspoons. If possible, use the syringe or dropper that comes with the
medication. If you use a teaspoon, it should be a measuring spoon. Regular
spoons are not reliable. Also, remember that 1 level teaspoon equals 5 ml and
that ½ teaspoon equals 2.5 ml.
Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.
Content Set: Pediatric HouseCalls Symptom Checker
Pediatric HouseCalls Symptom Checker