Got a Sick Kid? 

Make sure you are giving your children the right medicine and the right amount.

When it comes to taking medicines, kids are not just small adults. When using medicines, here are 10 ways to be sure you are giving your children the right medicine and the right amount.

1.         Read and follow the label directions every time. Pay special attention to directions and warnings. If you notice any new symptoms or side effects (reactions like a rash or trouble breathing) in your child or, the medicine does not seem to be working, talk to your doctor or druggist immediately.

2.         Know how much medicine to give and when to give it. Read and follow the label. Be aware that some words in English do not have the same meaning in a different language.  Find someone to explain the label in your language if your English is not good.

3.         Know the shorter words for “tablespoon” (tbsp.) and “teaspoon” (tsp.). You should also know: milligram (mg.), milliliter (mL), and ounce (oz.).

4.         Use the correct measuring tool.  Do not use a dosing cup with ounces only, if the label says two teaspoons. Do not guess: get the proper measuring device. Use the measuring cup or spoon if the medicine comes with one. Do not use a kitchen spoon, paper cup, or other item instead.

5.         Never play doctor. Do not double the amount of medicine just because your child seems more ill than last time. Call your doctor or the nearest medical clinic when you are not sure how to take care of your child.

6.         Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider before giving two medicines at the same time.  Some drugs cause more problems if they are taken at the same time. They can even cause an overdose.  Ask your doctor or druggist before you give more than one medicine at the same time.

7.         Follow age and weight limits that you find on the package.  If the label says do not give to children under a certain age or weight, do not do it. Call your doctor.

8.         Always use the child-resistant cap and re-lock the cap after each use. Be extra careful with vitamins or supplements that have iron in them.  Children under three years of age could die from accidental poisoning from vitamins with iron.

9.         Follow the “KEEP OUT OF REACH” warning. Today’s medicines are often flavored to hide the taste of the medicine.  Kids might think they are candy or soda pop. So keep all drugs out of the sight and reach of children.

10.       Always check the package and the medicine to make certain they have not been opened. Do not buy or use any medicine from a package that has been cut, torn, or re-taped shut. Report anything that does not seem right to the druggist or store manager.

Source:  Council on Family Health; U.S. Food and Drug Administration