Administering medications to your child

Administering the proper medication requires careful attention, diligence and responsibility. 

As the primary carer of a child, you should have had several discussions with your child’s doctor or a health care professional about the dosage and timing of your child’s medication. If you are not the primary carer, have a detailed discussion with the primary carer about their medication needs before looking after their child, 

Before administering medication

You should always:

  • check the expiration date of the medication to ensure it is safe to use
  • read the label and instructions even if you have administered your child’s medication before
  • follow the advice on when to take the medication, including timing and whether it should be taken with food
  • be aware of foods, drinks or other medication that should not be taken at the same time as your child’s medication
  • check that you are administering the:
    • right medication for your child, especially if children have more than one medication or there are multiple children in the household
    • correct dose or amount of medication that was prescribed or recommended for their age or weight
    • medication at the right time of the day.

After checking medication to ensure it is safe, there are furthers steps that should be taken to ensure that you stay on top of medication safety.

Language matters

While it may be tempting to get your child to swallow their medication by referring to them as lollies or sweets, it is not recommended and may cause harm long-term. To avoid confusion, always refer to medication by its proper name and explain what they are used for. 

Do not share medication

Regardless of whether you, a sibling or a family member has the same illness, do not give your child someone else’s prescribed medication. The dosage, timing and directions are specific to the person whose name is on the medication. 

Monitor for side effects

It is important to monitor your child for potential side effects or reactions to medications, especially if it is the first time they are having the medication. You should visit your child's doctor if you have any concerns or further questions. 

Keep in contact with your health professionals

Talking with your family doctor or pharmacist is always the first step to understanding the correct way to provide medication for your child. Let your doctor know if your child experiences any side effects, reduction in symptoms or changes to their condition. Your doctor can help identify if the medication is still appropriate.

Check medication is appropriate

Not all illnesses or symptoms will require prompt medication administration. It is equally important to know when not to administer medication. 

Some medications are not recommended for children under 6 years of age, for example, cough medicine, antihistamines and decongestants. Anti-inflammatory medication and paracetamol are common over-the-counter medications for adults but could be harmful to children, so always check with your pharmacist before administering.

Avoid taking medication in front of children

Although medication is often a normal part of life, children like to copy adults. Where possible, try not to take your own medication in front of young children. If they do happen to see you taking medication, explain why you need to be taking it.

Dispose of expired medications

Always check the expiration date of your child’s medication. 

If it is out of date, it may not be safe or efficient to use. Take the medication back to your pharmacist to dispose of it correctly and update the medication needed for your child. Do not throw old medication in the bin or flush them down the toilet. 

See the Medication adherence factsheet for more information.