Your baby is unwell, the doctor has prescribed medicine, and now you have to get it into a tiny, wriggling, unwilling mouth without spilling half of it. Knowing how to give baby medicine safely protects your baby from under- and overdosing and makes the whole process less stressful. Here is a step-by-step guide.
Quick answer: how to give baby medicine
- Check the dose for your baby’s age and weight, and the strength of the medicine.
- Use an oral syringe or the measuring device provided, never a kitchen spoon.
- Aim for the inside of the cheek, slowly, not the back of the throat.
- Write down every dose with the time.
Before you give medicine
- read the label and leaflet carefully, every time
- check whether it is the infant or child strength
- shake liquid medicines if the label says so
- check you are not already giving another medicine with the same ingredient
- ask your pharmacist if you are unsure
Step by step with an oral syringe
- Wash your hands.
- Draw up the exact dose and check it at eye level.
- Hold your baby semi-upright, supporting the head, as for a feed.
- Place the syringe tip inside the cheek, between the gum and the cheek.
- Push the plunger slowly, a little at a time, letting your baby swallow.
- Keep your baby upright for a few minutes afterwards.
- Wash the syringe in warm soapy water.
If your baby refuses
- give small amounts with pauses
- offer a feed straight afterwards to wash it down
- try a dummy dispenser if your baby uses a dummy
- do not mix medicine into a whole bottle of milk; your baby may not finish it
- if your baby vomits straight after a dose, ask your pharmacist whether to repeat it
Safety rules
- never give aspirin to babies or children
- do not give ibuprofen under 6 months unless your doctor advises it
- do not use adult medicines or cut adult tablets
- finish courses of antibiotics as prescribed
- store all medicines out of reach and sight
See acetaminophen vs ibuprofen for babies and safe pain relief for babies.
When to talk to your doctor
- you think your baby has had too much medicine, or swallowed medicine by accident: get advice immediately
- a rash, swelling, vomiting or breathing difficulty after a medicine: seek urgent help
- symptoms are not improving as expected
- you are unsure about the dose or timing
Frequently asked questions
Can I mix medicine with food?
Some medicines can be mixed with a small amount of food. Check with your pharmacist first.
What if I miss a dose?
Follow the leaflet or ask your pharmacist. Do not double the next dose unless told to.
Are drops better than syringes?
Use whatever device comes with the medicine, as it is matched to the dose.
Sources
- NHS: Giving medicine to children
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org: Using Liquid Medicines
- U.S. FDA: Giving medicine to children
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the instructions from your doctor or pharmacist.