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Health Tip: Giving Medicine Safely to Children

(HealthDay News) -- Giving a child the wrong dose or an inappropriate medication can have serious consequences, says MedlinePlus.

Drug labels for prescription medicines should have a section on use among children.

To safely give medicine to your child, MedlinePlus suggests:

• Read and follow the label directions every time.

• Watch for any side effects.

• Know the abbreviations for amounts such as tablespoon and teaspoon.

• Use the correct dosing device.

• Follow age- and weight-limit restrictions.

• Check with a doctor before giving two medicines at once.