Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Dosage Table
| Diphenhydramine Dosage Table (Benadryl) | ||||||
| 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.
Table Notes:
- 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 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.
Last Reviewed: 3/15/2008
Last Revised: 10/25/2008
Content Set: Pediatric HouseCalls Online
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 3/15/2008
Last Revised: 10/25/2008
Content Set: Pediatric HouseCalls Online
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.