Medication Safety for Children  

Community Contributed

By Jon Mikami, RPh, and Kelly Go, RPh, Molokai Drugs, Inc.

Did you know that medications are the top cause of poisoning in kids? Together, we can help change that. To get started, here are a few answers to some questions parents commonly ask about medication safety for kids.

Where should I store medications? People may call it the “medicine cabinet,” but it’s not a good place to store medications. Bathrooms are moist and can lower the strength of a medication. Plus, they’re a little too easy for little hands to get into.Instead, keep drugs, eye drops and vitamins out of sight and reach of children in a high place, like a closet or kitchen shelf. A curious kid may easily find medicine in a purse or dresser drawer.

How should I measure medicine? With young children, it’s especially important to get the dosing right. Always use the dosing device that comes with the medicine. Measuring spoons or other home utensils aren’t the same as a medication syringe or cup.  If you use a syringe, try squirting the medicine on the inside of the cheek where there are fewer taste buds.If your child takes the wrong dosage, call us right away. We can tell you whether or not it’s cause for concern.  Or call Poison Control for assistance as well.

Does a spoonful of sugar help the medicine go down? Some medicines can taste pretty nasty to a child. It may be OK to mix a liquid medication with chocolate or maple syrup. However, don’t do this for babies. If they don’t finish a bottle, they won’t get the right amount of medication.Check with us before crushing and mixing a tablet or capsule with food.

Is it okay to share prescription medications? No matter how similar their symptoms, don’t have your kids share medications. And never repackage them. Keep medications in their original childproof container.

How long can my child use a medication? Be sure to not use drugs past their expiration date. Most drugs lose their strength after about a year. If you have any question about whether or not to use a drug, talk with your child’s doctor or us. And if your kids have eczema, you should always keep an infant eczema cream in your medicine cabinet.

Are OTC drugs safe for kids? Be sure to read labels. Not all over-the-counter (OTC) medications are safe for children of all ages. Never give aspirin to any child—it can cause serious illness, even death. Make sure you know a drug’s potential side effects and stay alert to any adverse reactions. Kids can be more sensitive to drugs than adults. The FDA recommends that you not use OTC cough and cold medications in children younger than age two. Rest, clear fluids, and a humidifier may be the best route to recovery from colds and flu. Do your research at https://www.proxsysrx.com/2021/11/08/understanding-the-340b-program-requirements/ first

Remember, there’s no substitute for getting your specific questions answered. Set up an emergency pediatric appointment if you have immediate concerns about your child’s medications.

Nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, or is a substitute for professional advice.  You should always seek the advice of your physician or other medical professional if you have questions or concerns about a medical condition.