Dosage

Wrong dose is one of the most common medication mistakes. Dosing isn’t just a number on a bottle — it depends on your age, weight, kidney and liver health, and other medicines you take. This page gives simple, usable tips so you can check doses at home before calling a pharmacist or doctor.

Quick dose-check rules

First, read the label every time. Look for the active ingredient, strength (for example, mg), and how often to take it. For liquid medicines, use the dosing syringe or cup that comes with the product — kitchen spoons are not accurate. If a dose is written in mg and you only have a liquid strength (mg/mL), divide the mg needed by the mg per mL to find how many mL to give.

Weight matters. Many pediatric and some adult doses are weight-based (mg per kg). If a child’s dose is weight-based, weigh them and do the math or ask a clinician to confirm. For older adults or people with kidney or liver problems, a normal adult dose may be too high; a doctor might lower it or give it less often.

Avoid splitting or crushing extended-release tablets. Those are made to release drug slowly. Breaking them can dump the whole drug at once and cause side effects. If swallowing is a problem, ask your pharmacist for an alternative form — many drugs come as liquids, patches, or immediate-release versions you can substitute safely.

Everyday dosing tips you can use

Keep a simple pill log for new medicines: name, dose, time, and any symptoms. This helps spot side effects fast. If you miss a dose, check the label: some say take it as soon as you remember; others tell you skip it if near the next dose. Don’t double up unless a clinician tells you to.

Watch for interactions. Some drugs need food to work or to avoid stomach upset; others require an empty stomach. Grapefruit juice can change how some drugs are absorbed. Always check the label or ask your pharmacist if you’re unsure.

Use a single, consistent measuring tool for liquids and keep it with the medicine. Store meds as instructed — some need fridge storage, others must stay dry and cool. Expired medicines can lose potency or become unsafe.

Need a dose for a specific drug? Our articles linked under this tag cover common meds, usual adult ranges, and special situations like pregnancy, kidney disease, or kids. When in doubt, call your pharmacist or clinician — it’s the fastest way to prevent a dosing mistake.

Small checks — reading the label, using the right tool, knowing weight or kidney issues — cut most dosing errors. Stay curious and ask questions; dosing is a team effort between you and your care team.