Flexon (ibuprofen–paracetamol) pediatric dosing (age >12 months)
Flexon® Suspension is a fixed-dose combination with ibuprofen 100 mg per 5 mL and paracetamol 162.5 mg per 5 mL. [1] For children older than 12 months, dosing is weight-based to meet standard pediatric single-dose targets for ibuprofen and to keep 24-hour totals below maximum limits. [2], [3]
Medication composition and unit conversions
- Each 5 mL contains ibuprofen 100 mg and paracetamol 162.5 mg. [1]
- This corresponds to ibuprofen 20 mg/mL. [1]
- This corresponds to paracetamol 32.5 mg/mL. [1]
Weight-based dose for fever or pain (single dose)
The dosing framework uses the standard pediatric ibuprofen single-dose target of 10 mg/kg per dose given every 6 to 8 hours as needed for fever or pain. [2]
- Ibuprofen-based Flexon dose (per dose):
- Target ibuprofen dose: 10 mg/kg/dose. [2]
- Flexon concentration: 20 mg/mL.
- Dose volume ≈ 0.5 mL/kg per dose (because 10 mg/kg ÷ 20 mg/mL = 0.5 mL/kg). [1], [2]
Maximum daily limits
Maximum daily limits should be based on total daily ibuprofen and paracetamol exposure.
- Ibuprofen maximum: 40 mg/kg/day. [4]
- Paracetamol maximum: 60 mg/kg/day (oral dosing guidance). [3]
Administration guidelines
- The bottle should be shaken well before measuring. [5]
- A dosing syringe, dropper, or dosing cup provided with the product should be used instead of household utensils to measure volume accurately. [6]
- Administration should follow the measured mL dose for the child’s current weight and should not exceed the 24-hour maximum daily limits for either ingredient. [3], [4], [6]
Dosing interval guidance
- Ibuprofen component: dosing frequency is every 6 to 8 hours as needed. [2]
- Paracetamol component: dosing frequency should be spaced to align with standard paracetamol intervals and 24-hour dose limits. [3]
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Duplicate acetaminophen/paracetamol exposure from other cold/flu products should be avoided because Flexon already contains paracetamol. [5]
- Dosing errors occur when household teaspoons/spoons are used instead of an appropriate measuring device. [6]
- Repeated dosing beyond 40 mg/kg/day (ibuprofen) or 60 mg/kg/day (paracetamol) increases toxicity risk and should be prevented. [3], [4]
Monitoring and when to seek urgent care
Medical evaluation should be sought for possible overdose or serious adverse effects after excessive dosing, including signs of bleeding, persistent vomiting, reduced urine output, severe lethargy, or rash. [5]