Kids' Medications:
No Appointment Necessary
Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, September 10 and December 17, 2005
Show 224
Dr. Lisa Thornton:
Even though they sometimes act like it, children are not miniature adults. They have unique needs, especially when it comes to over-the-counter medications. Here's some important safety advice.
Rachael Deck, PharmD:
Over-the-counter medications are serious medicines that can be harmful if taken incorrectly. Make sure you read the entire product label before giving any child an OTC medication. By reading the label carefully, you can be sure you've selected the right medicine, that you know the proper dosage and that you're aware of warnings or precautions.
Follow the product directions on the label carefully. Most children's OTC medicines give dosing information based on weight, which is the best way to determine proper dose. Use an accurate scale to check your child's weight before giving them an OTC medication.
To avoid making mistakes, never give your children medicines in the dark. It's too easy to misread directions or grab the wrong medicine. Also never give medications to a child who's lying down. This can cause choking. And it's always a good idea to write down the time and amount of each dose you give your child, so that you won't forget even late at night.
Getting kids to take medicines is becoming less of a problem. Many OTC products come in flavors like bubble gum or even melt in the mouth, so no spoon or water is needed.