NPR

Giving Medicine To Young Children? Getting The Dose Right Is Tricky

In a recent survey, 1 in 5 parents said they thought using a household spoon was OK for measuring their child's medicine. It's not. Here's how to help little kids without overdosing them.
If you fear your child may have taken or received too much medicine, call the national poison control hotline at <a href="https://poisonhelp.hrsa.gov/">1-800-222-1222</a>.

It's the middle of the night and you wake up to the disturbing sound of your little one crying and sniffling with a cold, sore throat or fever. And, if you're like many parents, you reach into the medicine cabinet, seeking some relief.

But giving medication — and getting the dose right — can be more challenging than you might think. Jesse and Shannan Ridall live in Palmyra, Pa., with their three young children. Jesse says the lined markings on dosing devices of children's medicine can be confusing, especially when they show both teaspoons and milliliters.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min readAmerican Government
In W. Va. Primary, Establishment Candidates For Governor Highlight Culture War Issues
Several Republicans with deep ties to state politics vye in the primary to face the Democrat in November
NPR3 min read
Justice Thomas Decries 'Nastiness' And 'Lies' Against Him
The Supreme Court justice told attendees at a judicial conference that he and his wife have faced "nastiness" and "lies" over the last several years and decried Washington as a "hideous place."
NPR4 min readWorld
In Gaza, A Hidden Threat Could Kill Palestinians Even After A Cease-fire
The United Nations says 7,500 metric tons of unexploded ordnance litter the Gaza Strip. The U.N. says it could take 14 years to dispose of these dangers.

Related Books & Audiobooks