PediRounds

Dexamethasone — paediatric dose

Weight-based dosing for Dexamethasone in children. Category: Respiratory.

DoseCroup 0.15–0.6 mg/kg once (max 16 mg)
Per kg0.15–0.6 mg/kg
Maximum16 mg
RoutePO/IV

Clinical notes

Also antiemetic / airway oedema.

Common questions

What is the dose of Dexamethasone in children?

Croup 0.15–0.6 mg/kg once (max 16 mg). That is 0.15–0.6 mg/kg per dose.

What is the maximum Dexamethasone dose for a child?

The maximum single dose is 16 mg. Weight-based calculation should never exceed this ceiling.

How is Dexamethasone given?

Dexamethasone is given by PO/IV.

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.