Young's formula, also known as Clark's rule, is a method used to estimate the appropriate pediatric dose of a medication based on the child's weight. It is commonly used for medications that do not have specific pediatric dosing guidelines or when the dose needs to be adjusted based on the child's weight.
Young's formula is as follows:
Child's dose = (Child's weight in pounds / Average adult weight in pounds) × Adult dose
Alternatively, if the child's weight is given in kilograms:
Child's dose = (Child's weight in kilograms / Average adult weight in kilograms) × Adult dose
It's important to note that Young's formula is just an estimate and should only be used when a specific pediatric dosing guideline is not available. For medications with established pediatric dosing recommendations, it's best to follow the dosing instructions provided by the healthcare provider or the medication's label. Additionally, always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before administering any medication to a child. They can assess the child's specific medical condition and provide appropriate dosing instructions based on their weight, age, and other relevant factors.