Child-Proofing Your Medications

CHECK IN WITH YOUR PERSONAL PHARMACIST

WE ARE HERE TO HELP.

• Ensure you get the most from your medicine.
• Review what each of your medications are for.
• Check in on any concerns you have.
• Check for any drug interactions.
• Prevent complications.
• Help save you money.
• Be accessible for when you need it most.

We know that you may have a close relationship with your doctor or pharmacy. Our goal is to be an extension of your healthcare team as an additional resource.

Where should I store medications?

Medications should be stored in a cool and dry place that stays consistent in temperature for optimal storage. While it may seem reasonable to put medications in the medicine cabinet of the bathroom this may not be the best place for medications due to the humidity in the space. 

It is important that if there are children and pets to consider, to keep medicines out of reach and eyesight. The top cabinet in the kitchen may be a good place to store medicines since it is out of reach and out of sight for little ones.

How can I prevent children from opening medicines accidentally?

The safest way is to limit a child’s access to medicines, but there are other safety measures you can take. Having prescriptions in child-proof lids is one more safety precaution to limit child access to potentially dangerous medicines.  Remind your pharmacist to give you safety caps for your medications.

Depending on what the medication is, you may choose to have a locked box to restrict access to medicines and increase safety.

DID YOU KNOW?

Many antibiotics are prepared by the pharmacy by adding water to a powder that contains the medicine. Medications prepared in this fashion are only good for a few days. Even if you have extra medicine, dispose of it by the date instructed by your pharmacist. 

If you cannot find this date on the medicine, call the dispensing pharmacy before giving it to your child.

TIPS FROM YOUR PERSONAL PHARMACIST

Clean your medications out like you clean a closet.

• Medications and vitamins expire. 
• Similar to how it is suggested to organize your closet, take all medications out of their normal place and review the expiration date of each one before putting them back.
  • It is not recommended to use medications past their expiration date as they may be less effective or even dangerous .
• Do this when children and pets are safe and far away from the area you are using.
• Safely dispose of expired medications and determine if any need to be replaced or restocked in your home.
  • Most medicines can be disposed of in the garbage by mixing with coffee grounds or cat litter to deter animals from eating
  • Narcotics should be taken to a registered drug take back center or police department

Keep the medicines for different members of your family apart from one another:

• Have a separate labeled container for each family member’s medicines.
• Double check the name on the bottle before giving the medicine.
• Use a highlighter or marker to color each bottle for a coordinating  family member.  Use clear tape to prevent the color from rubbing off.

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This is NOT something to call your personal pharmacist about! Accidentally taking medication is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical intervention.

Helpful Contact Information

Emergency Department: 911

Poison Control: (800) 222-1222

ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435