Know how to read a Drug Facts label?
How do you know which medication is right for you child? Drug Facts labels, found in every OTC bottle, have all the information necessary to make the best decision and avoid unwanted effects while achieving the expected outcomes.
- Active ingredients - ingredients that make the drug work or that help relief the targeted symptoms. Be very cautious regarding the ingredients of medications because of the possibility of giving your child multiple medications containing the same ingredients.
- Uses- indicates the symptoms the medication is intended to treat.
- Warning - includes side effects, medications you should not take while on that medication, and different concerns or questions you should ask your doctor
- Directions - describes how to take the medication, including how much, how often, what age is appropriate, and how you much you can take in one day
- Other information - includes information such as proper storage
- Inactive ingredients - ingredients that are not intended to treat the symptoms
Medication Measuring Devices
Many measurement devices are available to use for medication administration - BOTTOM LINE: Use what is provided with the medication!
- If one is not provided, buy one at the pharmacy or ask your pharmacist for one. AVOID KITCHEN SPOONS!!
- The most accuracy can be achieved with using an oral syringe - but medicine spoons, medicine droppers, and medicine cups are also okay.