Is it safe to give a child medication meant for older children?

Question

My daughter is 16 months, but like the rest of her family, she is very tall and her weight is that of an average 3 year old. I understand that many children's medications are administered according to an age and weight. I once had a pharmacist tell me those are just guidelines and that I should really administer the medication according to weight, not age. But I'm still unsure. Is it safe to give a 16 month old medication intended for a two year old if they weigh enough?

Update:

Thanks for the answer, but they don't generally make cold medications for children under two, so getting the "right" medicine isn't likely. I should have been more specific. I'm referring to over the counter cold and flu medications.

Melyssa · Accepted Answer

depends on the medicine.. I mean tylenol? sure its safe just do it by the weight, cold medicine ( even those are only labled for kids 4 and up now) not so much. their liver and kidneys arent equipped to handle those meds. sure one time wont most likely do any harm but repeated use.. 
Allergy meds again fine, just do it by weight or the lowest dose in years ( like 2-4 y) and then cut it in half.

edit ok I wouldnt give her the cold and flu medicine. Those arent even recommended for 2 y olds anymore. You can give her tylenol and like claritin for the stuffiness. and then get vicks vaporub and rub it on her chest, humidifier and all that..

Anonymous · Answer

there is a reason why they dont make the medications for children under two.

Anonymous · Answer

To be safe give her 1/2 to 1/4 LESS the recommended dose of a 2 year old.

the scuNk · Answer

Since she's so young, her body should be considered extra susceptible. Consult a pediatrician or, worst case scenario, just go to the store and get the right medicine.

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Is it safe to give a child medication meant for older children?

4 Answers