Safe Medicine Practices for Children

Child Health · Last reviewed: August 2026

Medicines help when they are used correctly. For children, the dose usually depends on weight and age, so care is needed at home.

Basic safety points

• Give only medicines advised by a doctor for that child.
• Use the measuring cup or syringe given with the medicine.
• Follow the exact dose and time interval.
• Do not use medicine left over from an earlier illness without asking.
• Do not use another child's prescription.

Storage

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Check the expiry date before use.
• Store as printed on the label, and keep syrups closed tightly.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics do not work for every fever or cold. They should be taken only when prescribed, and the full course should be completed as advised by the doctor.

Call a doctor immediately

• If a child swallows medicine by mistake.
• If a rash, swelling or breathing difficulty appears after a medicine.
• If you are unsure about a dose.