Safe Use Of Medicines

How to use medicine

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist about any possible side effects – e.g. drowsiness or irritability.
• Check whether there are any precautions you should take.
• If your child is already taking a medication (even a non prescription one), check if it’s okay to take both.
• Make sure you understand how much and how often to give the medicine, and follow the directions on the packet carefully.
• When you buy over-the-counter medicines at the pharmacy (e.g. cough medicine), always say it’s for a child, and tell the pharmacist the child’s age and weight.
• If your child is reacting badly to the medicine (e.g. diarrhoea or rash), stop giving it to them and tell your doctor.
• Buy medicines with childproof caps if possible. To ensure the locking mechanism is fully engaged, turn cap firmly in a clockwise direction until no further movement is possible. Take care not to over tighten it. The cap is secured correctly when it can be turned anti-clockwise and a clicking sound is heard.
• If your child’s condition is getting worse, despite the medicine, see your doctor immediately.