Health Tip: Use Medications Safely

Dos and don't for giving medicine to children

(HealthDay News) -- If your child isn't feeling well and needs an over-the-counter medication recommended by your pediatrician, the American Academy of Family Physicians offers these safety guidelines:

  • Make sure the medicine treats only your child's symptoms, nothing more.
  • Make sure any caregivers know the correct timing, dosage and type of medication your child needs.
  • Always read the medication's label and follow directions carefully.
  • Keep medications stored in their original packaging, so you can easily refer to instructions.
  • Never give cough and cold medication to a child younger than age 4 or aspirin to anyone younger than age 18.
  • Don't combine medications unless your child's pediatrician says it's OK to do so.
  • Don't give any adult medication to a child.
Diana Kohnle

Related Articles

Learn More About Sharp
Sharp HealthCare is San Diego's health care leader with seven hospitals, two medical groups and a health plan. Learn more about our San Diego hospitals, choose a Sharp-affiliated San Diego doctor or browse our comprehensive medical services.

Health News is provided as a service to Sharp Web site users by HealthDay. Sharp HealthCare nor its employees, agents, or contractors, review, control, or take responsibility for the content of these articles. Please read the Terms of Use for more information.