Ask Dr. Hirsch: Weekly Q&A with Dr. Shari Hirsch, Pediatrician and Lactation Specialist at Lev Pediatric Care

Ask Dr. Hirsch

Weekly Q and A with Dr. Shari Hirsch, Pediatrician and Lactation Specialist at Lev Pediatric Care

This Week’s Question:
“How should medications really be stored at home to keep children safe?”

Dr. Hirsch’s Answer:
Most parents childproof the obvious things like outlets, stairs, and cabinets. But one safety risk often slips through the cracks: medications.

And not just prescription ones.

Why medication storage matters
Every year, thousands of children are treated for accidental medication ingestions. Many of these happen in careful, loving homes. Often the medication was being used appropriately, just stored too accessibly.

Common scenarios include a bottle left on the counter “just for tonight,” pills in a purse, vitamins that look like candy, or a grandparent’s medication within reach. It only takes one curious moment.

Kids don’t understand “medicine”
To young children, pills look like candy, syrups taste sweet, and gummies look like snacks. Child-resistant caps slow children down, but they are not childproof. If a child can see it, they may try to reach it.

Safe storage basics
Medications should be stored up high and locked, not just out of reach. Keep them in their original containers with labels. Separate adult and child medications, and avoid storing them on counters or in bathroom cabinets.

Don’t forget hidden risks
Purses, diaper bags, nightstands, coat pockets, and guests’ belongings are common sources of accidental ingestions. A quick check when visitors arrive can prevent a serious emergency.

Vitamins count too
Iron supplements, gummy vitamins, and herbal products can be dangerous in overdose. If it is not something your child should freely eat, it needs to be locked away.

If you suspect an ingestion
Stay calm. Do not induce vomiting. Call Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222. They are available 24/7 and can guide you on what to do next.

Bottom line
Medication safety is not about fear. It is about creating systems that protect children, even on busy days. Take a few minutes to walk through your home at toddler eye level and secure what needs securing.

Because the safest medication is the one a child cannot reach.

 Dr. Shari Hirsch, MD, specializes in infant feeding, including expert newborn support, lactation guidance, and frenotomy (tongue-tie release). She also offers emotional wellness care, with guidance and medication management for attention, mood, and anxiety support.

Lev Pediatric Care is located at Evergreen Uptown Mall in Pomona. Their hours are Sunday through Thursday, 10:00 am to 7:45 pm, and Friday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Same-day appointments are available. To schedule, call 845-579-5700. They also provide free car service to and from doctor visits.

Have a question for next week’s column? Send it to Lev Pediatric Care, and Dr. Hirsch may feature it in an upcoming Q&A