Medicine Dosages
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Benadryl is useful for the relief of allergic symptoms, including nasal allergies and allergic rashes or hives (urticaria). It can also be used to prevent or treat motion sickness.
Benadryl frequently causes sleepiness as a side effect, but it can paradoxically cause excitation in young children. It is not recommended to use Benadryl solely for the purpose of sedating or making a child sleepy.
Please do not give Benadryl to a child under 6 months of age without first discussing it with our office.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Dose Chart
Benadryl can be dosed up to every 6-8 hours.
1 teaspoon = 5 mL
1/2 teaspoon = 2.5 mL
Benadryl Children's Liquid 12.5mg/5mL
| Weight | Dose |
|---|---|
| 11-16 lbs | 2.5mL (1/2 tsp) |
| 17-21 lbs | 3.75mL (3/4 tsp) |
| 22-27 lbs | 5mL (1 tsp) |
| 28-32 lbs | 6.25mL (1 1/4 tsp) |
| 33-38 lbs | 7.5mL (1 1/2 tsp) |
| 39-43 lbs | 8.75mL (1 3/4 tsp) |
| 44-54 lbs | 10mL (2 tsp) |
| 55-65 lbs | 12.5mL (2 1/2 tsp) |
| 66-76 lbs | 15mL (3 tsp) |
| 77-87 lbs | 17.5mL (3 1/2 tsp) |
| >87 lbs | 20mL (4 tsp) |
Children's Allergy Strips 12.5mg each or Chewable Tablet 12.5mg each
| Weight | Dose |
|---|---|
| 22-27 lbs | 1 tablet or strip |
| 44-54 lbs | 2 tablets or strips |
| 66-76 lbs | 3 tablets or strips |
| >87 lbs | 4 tablets or strips |
Benadryl Allergy Capsule or Tablet 25mg
| Weight | Dose |
|---|---|
| 44-54 lbs | 1 capsule or tablet |
| >87 lbs | 2 capsules or tablets |
Questions about dosing? Please call our office at 630-848-1700.