Most Pediatric OTC Liquid Medications Have Inconsistent Dosing Directions and Measuring Devices

Better communication of dosing for over-the-counter drugs is necessary.

In 2009, the FDA issued the following voluntary guidelines for over-the-counter (OTC) liquid medications: (1) All liquid OTCs should include a measuring device, (2) measuring devices and directions should use consistent abbreviations and units of measurement, (3) dosing devices should not have extraneous markings or hold more than the maximum dose, (4) abbreviations should be standard and defined, (5) decimals or fractions should be used cautiously, and (6) studies should confirm accurate use by consumers.

At the time the FDA issued its guidelines, researchers examined dosing devices and directions for 200 of the most commonly used pediatric OTC liquid medications. Seventy-four percent of the products contained a measuring device, and 98% of…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)