Associates in Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine

Drugs and Their Use in Children

- Drugs, including prescription drugs, should not be given unless absolutely necessary.

- No drug at all should be given to an infant under 6 months of age unless recommended by your pediatrician.

- Drugs should be given only in recommended doses.

- Liquid drugs should be given with an accurate measuring device.  Household spoons vary and size and should not be used.

- Always learn the name of the drug, what it is for and the correct dosage.

- Never give your child someone else’s medicine unless your pediatrician tells you to do so.

- Never save medicine.  Many drugs deteriorate with age and may become toxic.

- Commonly used drugs should be kept in small quantities and always out of children’s reach.

- Do not choose drugs on the basis of television or other advertisements.  Ask your pediatrician.

- Drugs, including vitamins, should never be referred to as candy.  The child may be tempted to take the whole bottle if he thinks it is candy.