PediRounds

Chloral hydrate — paediatric dose

Weight-based dosing for Chloral hydrate in children. Category: Sedation.

Dose25–50 mg/kg (procedural)
Per kg25–50 mg/kg
Maximum1000 mg
RoutePO/PR

Clinical notes

Max 1 g. Avoid in significant respiratory compromise.

Common questions

What is the dose of Chloral hydrate in children?

25–50 mg/kg (procedural). That is 25–50 mg/kg per dose.

What is the maximum Chloral hydrate dose for a child?

The maximum single dose is 1000 mg. Weight-based calculation should never exceed this ceiling.

How is Chloral hydrate given?

Chloral hydrate is given by PO/PR.

About this page

Compiled from standard paediatric references. Verify against a current formulary and your local protocol.

Spotted something wrong? Report an error on this page — corrections from clinicians are welcome and are reviewed before any change is published.

Last reviewed 2026-08-12.