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Know the child's weight

It can be easier to stand on the scales together

Young children’s bodies are small, so even small dosing errors can cause them harm. Giving the right dose (or amount) of a medicine based on a child’s weight is important so that they receive the safest and most effective dose.

Weigh children regularly and keep a record of their weight

Use the weight of the child and the dosing instructions on the medicine’s packaging to calculate how much medicine to give. Never guess the amount of medicine to give a child or try to figure it out from adult dosing instructions.

To weigh a child accurately you will need a set of scales, ideally digital scales that measure in kilograms, placed on a hard surface. If you don’t have scales at home, your pharmacist, health clinic or doctor can help.

An easy way to weigh a child

  1. Weigh yourself and write down your weight.
  2. Hold the child and weigh yourself again. Write down your combined weight.
  3. Subtract the first weight from the second to get the child’s weight.

If a child is particularly large or small for their age, check the dose with a pharmacist or doctor before giving it.

KIDS' MEDICINE
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Date published: 2011-02-27 00:00:00

Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries when providing medical advice or treatment. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.

References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.