26/03/2026
⚠️ Common painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen are the main culprits.
Single centre studies estimate that around 2% of all childhood Emergency Department presentations relate to poisoning. Of these, around half involve medications, and two thirds of these cases are due to medication not intended for their own use, often either their parent’s or grandparent’s medications.*
We know medicines like paracetamol and ibuprofen are common in most family homes, especially during cold and flu season. But accidental poisoning from medicines is one of the most common reasons young children are taken to hospital.
According to the NHS, even small amounts of certain medicines can be dangerous for children.
Paracetamol poisoning can happen if a child:
• Takes too much in one go
• Is given more than the recommended dose
• Is given doses too close together
Too much paracetamol can seriously damage the liver, and the early signs are not always obvious.
Ibuprofen can also be harmful in large amounts and may cause stomach pain, vomiting, drowsiness or, in more serious cases, breathing difficulties or low blood pressure.
What to do if you think your child has taken too much medicine:
• Stay calm
• Find out what they have taken and how much (if possible)
• Call 999 immediately if they are very unwell, unconscious, having difficulty breathing or having a seizure
• Otherwise, contact NHS 111 for urgent advice
• Do not wait for symptoms to develop
• Do not try to make them sick
If advised, go to A&E and take the medicine packaging with you so that the doctor or healthcare practitioner can see exactly what has been taken.
Prevention is, of course, key:
• Always keep medicines locked away and out of sight and reach
• Double-check doses carefully
• Use the measuring syringe or spoon provided
• Never describe medicine as “sweets”
Accidents can happen in seconds.
Stay vigilant and act quickly - this can make all the difference. Talk to your local Mini First Aid trainer about baby safety 💚
*Source: British Toxicology Society
