One of the most common — and most dangerous — medication errors involves pediatric dosing. Children metabolize drugs differently than adults, and their doses must be calculated based on weight, age, and sometimes body surface area. A dose that's safe for an adult can be toxic or even fatal for a child.

The standard approach for pediatric medications is weight-based dosing, expressed as mg/kg (milligrams per kilogram of body weight). For example, ibuprofen for children is dosed at 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours, while paracetamol (acetaminophen) is 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours. Never guess a child's weight — always weigh them, ideally in kilograms, before calculating a dose.

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours, maximum 5 doses in 24 hours. Maximum daily dose: 75 mg/kg (not exceeding 4000 mg). This is the most commonly overdosed medication in children.

Ibuprofen: 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours. Not recommended under 6 months of age. Maximum daily dose: 40 mg/kg.

Amoxicillin: 25-50 mg/kg/day divided into 2-3 doses for standard infections; 80-90 mg/kg/day for acute otitis media.

Oral rehydration: For diarrhea, ORS (oral rehydration solution) is preferred over plain water or juice. Give small frequent sips rather than large volumes at once.

1. Confusing mg with mL — a 5 mL dose of a 100 mg/5 mL suspension contains 100 mg, but a 5 mL dose of a 250 mg/5 mL suspension contains 250 mg

2. Using household spoons — kitchen spoons vary widely in volume. Always use the measuring device provided with the medication

3. Doubling up on paracetamol — many cold and flu products contain paracetamol. Check all ingredients to avoid accidental double dosing

4. Using adult formulations — adult tablets should never be split for children unless specifically directed by a pharmacist

5. Ignoring age restrictions — aspirin is contraindicated in children under 16 due to the risk of Reye's syndrome

Take your child to a doctor or emergency room if:

- Fever persists beyond 48 hours despite treatment

- The child is under 3 months with any fever (38°C/100.4°F or higher)

- There are signs of dehydration (no tears, dry mouth, reduced urination)

- The child is unusually drowsy, has a stiff neck, or develops a rash

- You suspect a medication overdose — call poison control immediately