What to Keep in Your Medicine Cabinet

A well-stocked medicine cabinet is essential for preparing for common injuries, ailments and illness.

Here are some essentials you should have in your medicine cabinet: adhesive bandages, adhesive tape, alcohol wipes, analgesics for pain, antacids for upset stomachs, antibiotic ointment, antihistamines for allergy symptoms, mentholated chest rub, antiseptic, a calibrated measuring spoon, disposable hot wrap and refreezable ice pack, decongestant for stuffy nose and cold symptoms, fever reducers, gauze pads, hydrocortisone for itching and inflammation, syrup of ipecac and activated charcoal, a thermometer, and tweezers.

Keep in mind that overdoses do not occur using just prescription medications. It can happen using over-the-counter pills and vitamins as well. Also remember that pets can be endangered as well, so keep these out of reach from children, pets,and the elderly.

Don't swap medications or give medication to family members that haven't been prescribed. Take the correct dose and follow the label directions carefully. Be careful not to take too much or too little of your medication. Make sure you do not confuse a teaspoon (tsp.) with a tablespoon (TBSP.)Don't use a kitchen spoon to guesstimate!

It is recommended to do an inventory of your medicine cabinet once a year. To do this, you will need to take everything out of your medicine cabinet. Check each item's expiration date and throw out all outdated medications. If there is no expiration date on the item, check with your pharmacist about the shelf life. Keep all your medications in their original containers and labels.

If they are not, throw them away. Some medications are in certain containers for a reason; some are stored in tinted glass because exposure to light may cause them to deteriorate. To keep your children safe, keep all medications and vitamins out of their reach. Use the appropriate measuring device that accompanies the medication from the pharmacy (dropper, medicine cup, or dosing spoon).

Don't use any other device to dole out medicine. Make sure old and new medications are compatible if you are taking them at the same time. Steer away from giving products containing aspirin to children. Consult with a pediatrician for alternative treatments. Speak with your pharmacist about combining prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and herbal supplements.

Here are some thermometer tips for the whole family. Children under three months of age require a rectal thermometer but older children and adults have a choice. The American Academy of Pediatricians recommends not using mercury thermometers. These thermometers pose a danger if they break.

The best weapon against sickness and minor cuts and bruises is preparation. Keeping your medicine cabinet well-stocked is a good first step.