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Storing medicines safely

• Store medicines where children can't see or reach them. Many OTC medicines are colorful, taste good, and can be chewed. Kids may think that these medicines are candy.
• Use medicines with a childproof cap. Lock the cap after each use by closing it tightly.
• Don't buy or use medicine from a package that has cuts, tears, a broken seal, or other problems. Check the medicine at home to make sure the color and smell are normal.
• Check your medicine supply at least once a year. Ask your pharmacist how to get rid of medicines that are past their expiration date.
• Always store medicines in a cool, dry place or as it says on the label.
• Keep all medicines in their original containers. This way you avoid giving the wrong medicine by mistake.

Using cough and cold medicines

Studies show that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines don't work very well. Some of these medicines can cause problems if used too much. These medicines don't cure the cold or cough. And they don't help your child get better faster.

Use these medicines exactly as your doctor says and keep them out of children's reach.

• Check the label before you give cold medicines to a child. They may not be safe to give to young children.
• Don't give antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, for example), to your child unless you've checked with your doctor first. Antihistamines are sometimes used in cold medicines, so check for them on the label.
• Try other home treatments besides medicines. A humidifier may soothe swollen air passages or help a cough. Honey or lemon juice in hot water or tea may help a dry cough. Do not give honey to a child younger than 1 year old.
• Don't give your child too much acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If you are giving your child fever or pain medicine (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen), don't give your child a cold or flu medicine that contains the same ingredient. Your child could get too much medicine.