Write an article based on this "Read the medication's instructions and/or label carefully. Weigh the person taking the medication to get an accurate dosage. Use the measuring device that comes with the medication. Pour the medication in at eye level."
Whether you're measuring out and administering over-the-counter liquid medication or prescription medication, it's important to first read any instruction that's provided. Prescription labels typically include direct instruction on how much to take and how often. Over-the-counter medication labels include a lot of important information, including what it's used for, how to use it, and what's in it. When measuring and administering over-the-counter medications, you can typically determine dosage by age or weight. Weight is much more accurate, so step on the scale to find out how much medication is needed. Some medications determine dosage based on age or time alone. If this is the case, simply take the recommended amount for your particular age and/or don't take another dose until the instructions specify that it's safe to do so. Many over-the-counter liquid medications come with a measuring device, which is nearly always better to use than other measuring tools. Don't measure your medication with household measuring devices, such as a standard liquid measuring cup, unless you've misplaced the device that came with the medication. Measuring with a household device may work just fine, but the one that came with your medicine is the safest bet because it was made specifically for administering it. Some types of measuring devices that may come with your medication include measuring cups, dosing spoons, droppers, and syringes. Similar to when you're measuring liquids for cooking or for science experiments, you'll need to be eye level in order to get an accurate measurement. If the medication comes with a measuring cup or any other measuring device with a flat bottom, set it on a flat surface and bend down when you pour the medication in. Otherwise, hold the device up at eye level when you pour.