If your child has that harsh, barking cough and a noisy breathing pattern, chances are they’re dealing with croup. The good news? Most cases respond fast to the right medication, and dosing isn’t hard once you know the basics. Below we break down the two main meds doctors use, the exact amounts for different ages, and simple safety pointers.
Dexamethasone is the go‑to steroid for croup because it reduces swelling in the airway quickly. The dose is usually calculated by weight, but doctors give easy age‑based shortcuts for parents.
If you can’t give the medicine by mouth (vomiting, severe distress), the doctor may inject it. The effect shows within an hour, and the swelling keeps down for 12‑24 hours. No need for a repeat dose unless symptoms return.
Some kids need a fast‑acting rescue med called nebulized epinephrine (often called “breathe‑in” epi). It opens the airway right away but only works for a short time (about 2‑3 hours).
Because epi can raise heart rate and blood pressure, it’s only used in a clinic or emergency department where monitoring is possible. Parents should never try a home nebulizer without a doctor’s order.
**Safety Tips**
**When to Seek Help**
These signs mean the airway is narrowing more than usual and you need professional care right away.
In most cases, a single dose of dexamethasone gets the cough and stridor under control, and the child is back to playing in a day or two. Knowing the exact amounts and when to act keeps the experience stress‑free for you and safe for your little one.
Clear, weight-based dosing and safety for dexamethasone in kids: croup, asthma, allergic reactions, and COVID-19. Practical charts, tips, and when to seek care.