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Medicine Safety

Rules and Tips for Communication, Safe Dosing, and Safe Storage

Each year, Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 receives many calls about medicine mistakes involving children. Emergency departments also treat children who took medicine accidentally, were given the wrong dose, or found medicine that was not stored safely.

Children are fast and curious. In just a few moments, they may get into a purse, climb onto a counter, or open a low cabinet. To help prevent these exposures, keep medicines locked up, out of reach, and out of sight.

Never call medicine “candy.” Avoid taking medicine in front of young children when possible. As children get older, explain what medicine is and why they should never take someone else’s medicine. Teach them to always STOP and ASK FIRST before eating or drinking anything.

Understand the Proper Dose

Read all information on the medicine label and follow the directions carefully. Do not give a child medicine more often or in greater amounts than directed.

Use the Right Tool

Always measure a child’s dose using the dosing device that comes with the medicine, such as an oral syringe or dosing cup. If you do not have one, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use household spoons to measure medicine.

Get Questions Answered

If you do not understand the label instructions or how to use the dosing device, talk with your pharmacist or doctor before giving the medicine.

Remember Vitamins Are Medicine

Do not treat vitamins as candy or a treat.

Safe Medicine Storage

After taking or giving medicine, return it immediately to a safe storage location. Store medicines up, away, and out of sight and reach of young children.

Reminders

  • Locate a safe area: Store medicines in a place that is up, away, and out of sight and reach of young children.
  • Double-check the safety cap: Make sure caps are relocked completely. Twist until you hear the click or cannot turn it any farther.
  • Put medicine away right away: Never leave medicine on a counter or at a child’s bedside, even if it will be needed again soon.
  • Remind guests: Ask family members, visitors, and caregivers to keep purses, bags, and coats containing medicine up, away, and out of sight.
  • When traveling: If you are staying with family, friends, or at a hotel, choose a storage place that is out of sight and reach of children, such as a high cabinet or hotel room safe.

Be Prepared

  • Call Poison Control: Call 1-800-222-1222 right away if you think a child may have gotten into medicine or vitamins, even if you are not completely sure.
  • Program or post the Poison Help number: Save it in your phone and post it in a visible place, such as on the refrigerator. Expert help is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, anywhere in the United States.

The Pills or Candy interactive tool was designed by the Missouri Poison Center.

Pills or Candy Interactive Tool

If you have questions about medicine safety or possible exposures, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. Available 24/7.