OTC
drugs rarely come in one-size-fits-all. Here are some tips about
giving OTC medicines to children:
Children
aren't just small adults, so don't estimate the dose based on their
size. Read the label. Follow all directions.
Know
the difference between TBSP. (tablespoon) and TSP. (teaspoon). They
are very different doses.
Be
careful about converting dose instructions. If the label says two
teaspoons, it's best to use a measuring spoon or a dosing cup marked
in teaspoons, not a common kitchen spoon.
Don't
play doctor. Don't double the dose just because your child seems
sicker than last time.
Before
you give your child two medicines at the same time, talk to your
doctor or pharmacist.
Follow
any age limits on the label.
Never
let children take medicine by themselves.
Never
call medicine candy to get your kids to take it. If they come across
the medicine on their own, they're likely to remember that you called
it candy.
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CHILD-RESISTANT
PACKAGING
Child-resistant
caps are designed for repeated use to make it difficult for children
to open. Remember, if you don't re-lock the cap after each use, the
child-resistant device can't do its jobkeeping children out!
It's
best to store all medicinesincluding vitamins and supplementswhere
children can neither see nor reach them. Containers of pills should
not be left on the kitchen counter as a reminder. Purses and
briefcases are among the worst places to hide drugs from curious kids.
And since children are natural mimics, it's a good idea not to take
medicine in front of them. They may be tempted to "play house"
with your medicine later on.
Be
especially careful with iron-containing supplements. Iron is the
leading cause of accidental fatal poisonings in children under three.
If
you find some packages too difficult to openand don't have young
children living with you or visitingyou should know the law
allows one package size for each medicine to be sold without
child-resistant features. If you don't see it on the store shelf, ask.
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