manage your child's meds

It’s important to know what medicines your child is taking and why. Ask the doctor these questions about any new (and current) medicines your child takes:

• What is the name of the medicine? Generic name?
  
• Why is my child taking it? How will it help? When will it start working?
  
• What dose? How often? How long?
  
• When is the best time to give the medicine (morning, night, etc.)?
  
• How should I give it (with food, with water, etc.)?
  
• Am I allowed to crush it or give it with flavoring?
  
• What are possible side effects? What do I do if they happen?
  
• Are there any foods, drinks or activities my child should avoid?
  
• What do I do if my child misses a dose?
  

Be sure the doctors and nurses know:

• that your child’s name matches the name on the medicine (using your child’s ID bracelet to double check)
  
• all the prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements your child takes
  
• any allergies your child has to medicines, anesthesia, foods, latex, etc.
  

Safe Medication Disposal 

To learn about how to safely dispose of unused medication, click here.