What should I do in case of an overdose of Nurofen for Children?

If you suspect your child has taken more than the recommended dose of Nurofen for Children – stay calm and call the National Poisons Centre on 0800 764 766 (New Zealand only). Don’t wait for your child to feel sick or for symptoms to develop before you act. If your child is experiencing severe symptoms such as loss of consciousness or difficulty breathing, call 111 immediately.

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What is an overdose?

An overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the recommended amount of a medicine.

What to do if you suspect your child has taken an overdose

1. Telephone the National Poisons Centre on 0800 764 766 (New Zealand only, 24 hours a day)

2. Be prepared to answer the questions about your child and the medicine that’s been taken, such as:

Name of medicine, whether it’s modified release or immediate release (check the package)
Any other medications they have taken
Time of incident
Dose or amount taken
How they took the medicine (swallowed, breathed it in, got it on their skin)
Maximum amount they could’ve taken (include all medication that was available in the packet)
Weight of your child
Signs and symptoms

3. Carefully follow the instructions given by the National Poisons Centre.

What are the symptoms of Nurofen overdose?

Taking too much Nurofen can cause symptoms such as:

Stomach upsets
Breathing problems
Drowsiness

(This is not a full list of all the symptoms that can be caused by an overdose.)

How do I know what dose of Nurofen for Children to give my child?

The recommended dose of Nurofen for Children varies depending on the weight and age of your child. Doses may be given every 6–8 hours, as needed, with a maximum of 3 doses in 24 hours.

You should not give Nurofen for Children to babies under 3 months of age.

How can I prevent an overdose of Nurofen for Children?

The best way to prevent an overdose is to always follow the directions before you give your child Nurofen for Children and:

Always give the dose indicated on the bottle or pack for your child’s weight
Never give more than the recommended number of doses of Nurofen for Children suspension (maximum 3 doses over 24 hours)
Always store Nurofen for Children out of reach of children
Leave Nurofen for Children in its child resistant packaging

It may help you to keep a diary of when you give each dose, especially if you’re currently giving your child more than one type of medicine.

This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Do not use if you have a stomach ulcer. Do not give to babies under 3 months of age. Seek medical advice for children under 12 months of age. Reckitt Benckiser, Auckland. TAPS-NA12948. RB-M-36179.

First published: 1st June 2021

Last updated: 14th October 2024

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Need more advice?

Can I Take Nurofen Products with Other Medicines?
It’s important to be careful about the medicines you take and to speak to a health professional if you have any questions or concerns. Nurofen products contain ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps to relieve pain and reduce inflammation and fever. Unless advised by your doctor, do not take Nurofen if you are taking products containing ibuprofen, aspirin, or other anti-inflammatory medicines, or if you are taking medication regularly.
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How does ibuprofen work?
You may have come across ibuprofen before, and you may even have used it. Ibuprofen has many different brand names, one of which is Nurofen. Products containing ibuprofen come in many formats, and you can find them in supermarkets, pharmacies, and convenience stores. You’ll also find ibuprofen formulations designed for both adults and children., Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), also referred to as an anti-inflammatory – a type of medicine that’s commonly used to relieve pain and fever. NSAIDs may help relieve pain and reduce inflammation by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals. If you’re wondering whether there’s a difference between ibuprofen versus Nurofen, ibuprofen is the active ingredient in Nurofen. So how does ibuprofen work? What can you use ibuprofen for? Here, you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions about ibuprofen.
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