Avoid Child Overdoses of Common Types of Medicine
Very few types of medicine have been approved for use with children. In fact, most over-the-counter medicines are no longer thought to work for kids, and should be avoided altogether. Exceptions are children’s and infant’s Tylenol and children’s and infant’s Motrin.
Cold Medicines
Cold and cough medicines should generally be avoided. Natural remedies are often more effective, but be sure to check with your pediatrician before giving your child any herbal remedy.
The first rule with kids is never give aspirin or any product that contains aspirin to a child under the age of 16. A rare but fatal condition called Reye’s Syndrome could result.
Proper Dosing
Correct dosing is essential to avoid poisoning or death. Know your active ingredients; some cold medicines contain pain relievers. If you give your child a pain reliever with cold medicine, he may be getting too much of the pain relief ingredient. This can cause liver damage.
Never assume that a child-sized dosage is simply half of an adult dosage. Weight and age are factors in determining the correct dosage of any medication. Always read the label, and only choose medications meant for children. The label should help you determine the correct dosage for your child’s age and weight.
Know Your Measurements
Pay attention to the measurements defined in the label. Know the difference between a tablespoon and a teaspoon. If there is a dosage cup provided, look carefully at the markings to be sure you are adding the correct amount.
If you have questions about the proper dosage, you should ask the pharmacist, your pediatrician or the nurse on call at your doctor’s office. Always ask if you have a question rather than trying to figure it out on your own. Child safety is what matters most. It’s not worth making a mistake.
Parents need to keep in mind drug interactions as well. Even simple vitamin supplements could interact with some medications, particularly prescribed medications. If your child’s doctor is going to prescribe a medicine, be sure to alert him if your child is taking any supplements on a regular basis.
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Most types of medicine aren't safe for children. With those that are, you need to know how to properly administer a dosage, as it's all too easy to give a child too much.
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