How to Give Infants Medicine

Giving medicine to a baby can be tricky sometimes. Here are some tips to hopefully help simplify things.

1. Check with your pediatrician, every time – Because your baby’s weight changes quickly and dosage is usually determined by weight, it’s always best to check with your pediatrician. He or she will know how much is safe for your baby.

2. Use the right dosage device – Different teaspoons hold different amounts and devices may measure in either milliliters or ounces, so always use the tool that came with the medicine you’re going to give a baby.  That way, you won’t have

to make conversions (or even get messy, a definite drawback for both tired mom and sick baby).

3. Keep track of when medicine is given – The best way to make sure you give the right dose at the right time is to keep track of each dose of medicine you and other caregivers give your child. Jot down what time it was given (and how much). Download our fever diary. Also check out our free app, Kids' Wellness Tracker, that helps you track your child’s health information on your smartphone.

4. Stick with the recommended dose – Increasing the amount of medicine,

 or the frequency with which you give it, can do more harm than good and place your little one at risk of overdosing.

5. Don’t give medicine in the dark – Giving medicine in a darkened room can increase the chances of giving the wrong dose. Be sure you measure out the medicine in a well-lit area.

Giving Your Infant Tylenol