Parents are being reminded to be particularly cautious when giving medicines to children, as an incorrect dose can be harmful.

According to the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), the correct dose of medicine can vary depending on a child's age, weight and symptoms and as children grow, dosages can change. However, adult medicines should never be given to a child.

"When a child is sick, it is natural that parents want to make them feel better. Occasionally parents can unintentionally give young children too much medicine, especially when they are administering medicine regularly," commented Ann Marie Horan of the IPU.

She explained that medicine dosages should be adjusted according to the age and weight of the child, particularly when it comes to common pain relieving medicines.

"Too little medication can be ineffective, while too much medication can be harmful. Your pharmacist will be able to advise you on the correct dosage for your child and I would encourage all parents to check with their pharmacist," Ms Horan said.

She emphasised that parents should seek immediate medical assistance if their child displays any adverse reactions to a medication, such as breathing difficulties, a rash or vomiting.

The IPU offers the following advice to parents:

-Always read the information leaflet and follow the recommendations provided with the medication
-Give the correct dose that is suitable for the child's age and weight
-Follow the directions on how the medicine is to be taken, for example, with or after food, or with liquid
-Never guess the dose. Always use a 5ml spoon or dosage syringe provided with the medication
-Follow age and weight limit recommendations. If the label says do not give to children under a certain age or weight, do not give it
-Ensure the child takes all of the medicine each time it is given
-Keep a record of how much you have given and when
-Do not chill or crush medicine without checking it is okay to do so with your pharmacist, as this could alter the effectiveness of some medicines
-Never mix medicines without first checking with a pharmacist that it is safe to do so
-Do not give aspirin to children under 16, unless it is specifically prescribed by a doctor
-Store medicines in a cool dry place
-Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.