This month's newsletter will focus on accidentally taking a double dose of medicine. It happens to the best of us. Many people take medication every day and popping a pill becomes part of the routine. This can lead to forgetfulness and many people end up thinking "Wait... did I take this already?"

Here are some examples:

  • A child was given his heart medication by his mother when he woke up.  The father, not knowing the mother had already done so, gave the child his heart medication after breakfast for a second time.
  • A senior woke up early and took her 4 morning medications.   Upon waking up from a nap later in the day, still a little groggy, she took all 4 pills again because it is her habit to take her pills right when she gets out of bed.
  • A sick child with the flu and a fever is given medication for it-unfortunately by both parents.  The mom had been giving Tylenol (acetaminophen) for the fever every 6 hours, and dad had been giving a pediatric cold and flu syrup (containing several ingredients, one of which is acetaminophen) every 6 hours. Both medications together add up to a toxic amount of acetaminophen.

Getting a double dose of medication can cause anything from mild side effects to serious toxicity, depending on the type of medication, as well as if it was one double dose or multiple double doses given over time.  Here are some helpful tips:

  1. If a child is on medication, designate ONE parent or caregiver to be the medicine-keeper. Only this parent should be giving medication.
  2. Use a calendar, or even a scrap of paper rubber banded to the medication bottle to keep track of every dose given-write down the date and time.
  3. Tie medicine time to a specific activity, like brushing your teeth.  This helps you remember to take your medicine AND avoid inadvertently taking it twice.

If you ever encounter  ANY medication error, including a double dose, please call the Texas Poison Center Network right away.  Save 1-800-222-1222 in your phone today! Our experts can tell you what to expect and what you should do.

 

  
  
  
  
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 Here are some quick tips to keep your loved ones safe this Valentine's Day:

 

 Roses and baby's breath aren't considered dangerous to eat, but might cause a rash so wash your hands after arranging them.

 

Flower food isn't toxic, but can cause stomach upset if swallowed.

 

Chocolate can make pets vomit, have seizures, or worse.

 

Questions? Call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222

 

    
 
Don't forget to enter our Poster Contest!

 

National Poison Prevention Week is March 15-21, 2015 and the Texas Poison Center Network is again sponsoring the Poison Prevention Poster Contest.  The deadline for submissions is approaching quickly! While providing a valuable learning experience, the poster contest can also offer students the opportunity to educate the public about poison prevention as well as win exciting prizes! Each entry will compete for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes. The winning poster will advance to our state contest to compete for the grand prize. Winning posters will be sent to Washington, D.C. for consideration as the National Poison Prevention Week Poster for next year.

 

For more information on how your child can enter, click here to contact your poison center educator.