Overdosing

What Is an Overdose?

An overdose occurs when a child receives more than the recommended amount of an active ingredient. Some of the ways overdoses can occur include:

• A child being given two medicines containing the same active ingredient
• Receiving an additional dose
• Receiving medicine intended for an older individual
• Given a dose measured with a non-standardized method (such as a regular eating utensil)

The severity of an overdose depends on the amount consumed along with the concentration of the active ingredient.

Dangers of Overdose

The effects of overdose vary widely with the active ingredients involved. Results range from a mild case with increased irritation to a serious case that can be fatal. Each active ingredient has its own side effects that can be found on our page about active ingredients. Be especially careful with nasal decongestant sprays as just a few drops can be poisonous for a child.

Signs of an Overdose

While a child’s response to medicine will vary greatly, there are some signs you can watch for that may indicate an overdose has occurred. If you see any of the following, evaluate the need for further action immediately by contacting your poison control center or pediatrician:

• Irritability/agitation
• Drowsiness
• Increased heart rate
• Hyperactivity
• Shaking hands
• Irregular heartbeat
• Hallucinations
• Seizures

Get Help Immediately!

If your suspect your child has overdosed on a cold medication, you will need to act quickly to get help. Contact your pediatrician or poison control center for guidance on what actions to take. Either of these will be able to assist you in determining the severity of the overdose. In some cases, you may be referred to the emergency room for treatment. Wherever you turn for help, you will need to have some information available to receive the most accurate assistance and treatment:

• Bring the medicine bottle with you to verify the exact ingredients
• Have your medicine log handy or at least a rough time estimate of when the child was given the medication
• Bring information about your child’s allergies or other health conditions

Acting quickly is key as some conditions caused by an overdose can be life threatening.