Parental Help & Advice

Using Medicines Responsibly

No matter how healthy your child is, he is bound to need medicine at some point. Here's why it's so important to choose the right one and to make sure he gets the dosage he needs to treat his symptoms effectively.

Getting the dose right

If you're buying any over-the-counter medicine for your child, it's important to choose one suited to his age. Never give children medicines formulated for adults as they may contain unsuitable ingredients or dosages that are unsafe. Don't be tempted to give medicines formulated for older children to babies or vice versa either.

Both over-the-counter and prescribed medicines have detailed dosage instructions on the packaging. Make sure you read them and stick to them. Dosages for children are carefully calculated, so don't be tempted to give a little bit extra “just in case”. You could end up overdosing your child. If your child is prescribed a course of medicine, such as antibiotics or an anti-fungal cream, always finish the course.

Storing medicines

As with dosage instructions, all medicines carry storage instructions. Some medicines need to be stored in a fridge while others are fine in a cool, dry cupboard, preferably one that can be locked. Avoid using the traditional bathroom cabinet, as bathrooms tend to be quite warm, humid places. If you look at the packaging, you should also find a “use-by” date. It's a good idea to have a rummage through your medicine cupboard now and again, and clear out all the medicines that are past their use-by date.

Giving your child medicine

Some babies and toddlers kick up a huge fuss when you try to give them medicine. You'll make it easier, for them and you, if you:

  • Give the medicine with minimum fuss and without any prior warning. A big build up may well backfire.
  • If the medicine is “yucky”, have some water ready to drink afterwards or a small snack.

  • 10 top safety tips

    1. Always follow labelled instructions.
    2. Always use the dosage device that comes with the medicine.
    3. Keep medicines well out of children's reach, preferably in the locked cabinet.
    4. Don't give your child more than one medication intended to treat the same symptom at the same time.
    5. Cradle babies in a semi-upright position when giving medicine to avoid choking.
    6. Always dose medications with the light on and check the dose each time.
    7. Dispose of medicines if their use-by-date has passed or they are not being used anymore by your child.
    8. Teach your child about medication safety. Read the instructions aloud to him, tell him why he needs it and discuss how to take the medication safely.
    9. If you have any queries or concerns about a medicine, do speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
    10. If your child has any serious side effects after taking a medicine, such as difficulty breathing, get medical help immediately.

    Please note this is for background information only. If you are at all concerned or in any doubt contact your GP.

    Find out more:

    For further information visit the NHS website