Proceed with caution on kids' dosages.

• Position: Medication

When it comes to giving medication to children, parents and caregivers should always play it safe by thoroughly reading medicine labels and knowing what ingredients they contain. "Don't ever guess on the amount of medicine you give to a child," cautions Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Mark B. McClellan. "Always read and follow the dosage directions and warnings on over-the-counter medicine labels and review prescription medicine package Inserts. The directions on [OTC drug] labels tell you how much medicine to give your child, how often it should be given, and when to check with a doctor before giving it to your child."

Many times, parents or caregivers are faced with dispensing several different medications to children. In this case, advises Council on Family Health President Robert G. Donovan, "Since many products have the same active ingredient in them, reading labels carefully will help you avoid giving your child too much of the same medicine. If your child is taking a prescription medicine, it is always wise to check with a doctor or pharmacist before giving an over-the-counter medicine."

Parents and caregivers should use the dosing device that comes with the medicine or a graduated spoon or dropper available at most pharmacies. Don't substitute another item, such as a kitchen spoon.

The FDA pamphlet, "Got a Sick Kid? Don't Guess. Read the Label," should serve as a reminder that, when it comes to taking medicines, kids aren't just small adults. It offers 10 ways to be sure you are giving your offspring the right medicine and the right amount:

1. Read and follow the label directions every time. Pay special attention to usage directions and warnings. If you notice any new symptoms or unexpected side effects in your child, or the medicine doesn't appear to be working, talk to your doctor or pharmacist immediately

2. Know how much medicine to give and when. Read and follow the label directions.

3. Understand the abbreviations for tablespoon (tbsp.), teaspoon (tsp.), milligram (mg.), milliliter (mL.), and ounce (oz.).

4. Use the correct...