Proper Children's Dosage:
No Appointment Necessary

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, February 4 and March 18
Show 405

Dr. Lisa Thornton:

As a pediatrician and a mom, I know how hard it is when little ones are sick. Today, we're talking about proper medication dosing with our Health Corner pharmacist, Veronica Boros. You know, Veronica, a common misconception I see with parents is that they assume half of an adult dose is correct for a child. But that's not really true.

Veronica Boros, PharmD:

Right, because children metabolize drugs differently than adults. Dosing is very different. For over-the-counter medications, dosing will be listed on the bottle or on the package insert according to the child's height and weight.

Dr. Lisa Thornton:

And for children under two years old, there are medications made specifically for them.

Veronica Boros, PharmD:

Which brings up another misconception. Because it's more difficult to give medicine to an infant. Infant medications are more concentrated. So substituting infant drops for your toddler could result in a dose that's up to three times what it should be.

Dr. Lisa Thornton:

That's right. And always be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist about drug interactions with other medications, vitamins or supplements. Or with any questions you have about dosing. And our viewers should know it's a good idea to get all your prescriptions filled at the same pharmacy.

Veronica Boros, PharmD:

That way we can answer all their questions and check for potential drug interactions.