Treat Children's OTC Drugs with Care

Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs can help ease a child's aches and pains, but you should know a few things before you pop open a bottle.

The Consumer Healthcare Products Association says six of every 10 medicines we buy require no prescription. We use them to prevent unnecessary doctors' visits, help control symptoms, and make kids more comfortable, says Philip Walson, M.D., a pediatric pharmacy expert in Cincinnati.

Understand the label

They're pretty safe if used as directed, he adds. But pay attention to those words "use as directed." These are serious medicines, so you must read, understand, and follow the labels. What's more, you need to check with your pediatrician when in doubt about treating your child.

"Certainly the younger, the frail, the more ill, the more you lean toward getting some advice before you practice medicine," says Dr. Walson. "The real risk is that you'll delay getting care for a condition that needs to be evaluated by a doctor."

In general, Dr. Walson says, don't give any OTC medications to children younger than 2 unless you've already discussed it with your doctor.

When's the best time to seek advice about the right way to treat your child's headache or fever? "Make sure that you think about these things before they happen," Dr. Walson suggests. Ask your doctor during routine visits, or read up in reputable sources. Many doctors can suggest or provide material.

The ABCs of OTCs

Here are tips on OTC medicines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Consumer Healthcare Products Association:

• Don't guess about your children's dose based on their size. Read the label.

• Know the difference between TBSP (tablespoon, approximately 15 cc) and TSP (teaspoon, approximately 5 cc). They're very different.

• Be careful about converting dose instructions. If the label says two teaspoons, use a measuring spoon or dosing cup marked in teaspoons.

• 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 and weight limits on the label.

• Never let children take medicines by themselves.

• Never describe medicine as candy so kids will take it. If they come across the medicine on their own, they're likely to think of it as candy.

• Always give medicine in good light. Darkness increases the risk of giving the wrong medicine or dosage.

• Read the label before opening the bottle, after removing a dose, and again before giving the dose.

• Always use child-resistant caps, and lock medications away from children.

• Always check medication packages for signs of tampering.