Parents are being reminded to be particularly careful when giving medicine to children, as they are more vulnerable to errors in dosage.

According to the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), children should never be given a medicine that is meant for an adult, as an overdose could result. They should also never be given two types of medicine that contain the same ingredients, as an overdose or dangerous interaction could occur.

"It is important to ensure the safe use of both over the counter (OTC) and prescription medicines, as not all medicines are appropriate for all age groups of children. Paediatric dosages need to be adjusted to age and body weight and as a result, children are considered to be more vulnerable to dosage errors than adults," explained IPU vice-president, Kathy Maher.

She noted that different medicines can have different concentrations of ingredients and while too little can prove ineffective, too much can be harmful.

The IPU offers the following advice to parents when giving medicine to their child:
-Be sure you are giving the right medicine and the right amount. Check with your pharmacist first
-Read and follow the directions on the label. Never give the medicine more frequently than recommended by your pharmacist or doctor
-Always use a 5ml spoon or dosage syringe provided with the medication. Never guess the dose
-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
-Make sure the child takes all of the medicine each time it is given
-Check with the pharmacist first before chilling or crushing medicine as this could alter the effectiveness of some medicines.
-Do not give aspirin to children under 16, unless it is specifically prescribed by a doctor.
-Store medicines in a cool dry place and well out of reach of children, preferably in a locked location.

Meanwhile if parents notice any adverse side-effects that were not outlined by their pharmacist, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, a rash or trouble breathing, they should seek medical assistance immediately.