Dosing: a quick reference guide to common meds

Hi Parents,

Let's talk about one of the most confusing parts of caring for a sick child: medications. 

As a pediatrician, I want to help make this easier for you with some straight-forward guidance.

The Big Two: Tylenol & Motrin (Ibuprofen). These are your go-to medications for fever and pain. Here's what you need to know:

Tylenol (acetaminophen):

• Safe from birth

• Give every 6 hours

• Best for fever and pain

• Infant’s and Children’s Tylenol are the same concentration 

Pro tip: Always use the measuring device that comes with the medicine

Motrin/Advil (ibuprofen):

• Safe over 6 months of age

• Give every 6 hours

• Works well for pain and inflammation

• Infant’s and children’s Ibuprofen are DIFFERENT concentrations - the infant version is more concentrated so that you can give a smaller volume of medicine. For this reason - pay extra attention to your bottle and dosing instructions.

Tip: give with food to avoid stomach upset

Important Safety Tips 

✓ Store medicines up high and locked away 

✓ Always check expiration dates 

✓ Never call medicine "candy" 

✓ Keep medicines in original containers 

✓ Use the correct measuring tool (not kitchen spoons!)

Common Parent Questions

"Can I give both Tylenol and Motrin?" Yes! For high fevers or significant pain, you can alternate them. Just keep track of times and doses (try writing them down).

"What about cold medicines?" For children under 6, skip the cold medicines. They aren't very effective and can have side effects. Instead, try:

• Honey (if over 1 year old)

• Nasal saline drops followed by suction 

• Humidifier in their room

• Elevation of head - extra pillow for older kids 

Medication Mistakes to Avoid

1. Remembering that Ibuprofen has two different concentrations (details above)

2. Guessing doses based on age instead of weight

3. Using household spoons for measuring

4. Giving fever reducer just because there's a fever (treat discomfort, not numbers — I write more about fever management here.)

When to Call Your Pediatrician

• If you're unsure about a medication dose

• If your child has a reaction to any medicine

• Before giving any new medication

• If you're considering multiple medications

Quick Action Steps

1. Check your medicine cabinet today - toss anything expired

2. Create a medication log sheet for when your child is sick

3. Save your child's current weight and correct dosing in your phone

4. Program poison control number in your phone (1-800-222-1222)

Remember: The most accurate medication doses are based on your child's weight, so they change as your child grows.

Stay healthy, 

Dr. Emily 

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

The content of this newsletter is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as, and should not be relied upon as, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No physician-patient relationship is created by this newsletter or by any content herein. If you might be experiencing an emergency please call your doctor or 911.