Children's Medication Guide
A practical guide to pediatric medications in Canada. Compare costs, understand dosing, and learn about provincial programs that cover children's prescriptions.
Ontario OHIP+ covers over 4,400 medications free for children under 25
If your child has OHIP and no private insurance, most prescription medications are covered at no cost. Ask your pharmacist about OHIP+ eligibility.
Common Pediatric Medications & Costs
Frequently used children's medications with approximate pricing at Canadian pharmacies.
| Medication | Used For | Liquid Price | Tablet/Inhaler | Age Range | Rx? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Children's Tylenol Acetaminophen | Fever, pain | $8-12 100 mL | $6-10 24 chewables | 2-11 years | OTC |
Children's Advil Ibuprofen | Fever, pain, inflammation | $9-14 100 mL | $7-11 24 chewables | 6 months+ | OTC |
Amoxicillin Suspension Amoxicillin | Bacterial infections | $5-12 100-150 mL | N/A (liquid preferred) N/A | All ages | Rx |
Ventolin HFA Salbutamol | Asthma, wheezing | N/A N/A | $8-15 (inhaler) 200 doses | All ages | Rx |
Flovent Fluticasone | Asthma prevention | N/A N/A | $25-45 (inhaler) 120 doses | 1 year+ | Rx |
Benadryl Children's Diphenhydramine | Allergies, hives | $8-12 100 mL | $6-10 20 chewables | 2 years+ | OTC |
Children's Claritin Loratadine | Seasonal allergies | $12-18 120 mL | $10-15 30 chewables | 2 years+ | OTC |
Penicillin V Penicillin V | Strep throat, infections | $4-10 100 mL | $3-8 30 tablets | All ages | Rx |
Azithromycin Suspension Azithromycin | Ear/respiratory infections | $8-15 15-22.5 mL | $6-12 6 tablets | 6 months+ | Rx |
Nystatin Oral Suspension Nystatin | Oral thrush | $8-14 100 mL | N/A N/A | Newborn+ | Rx |
Dosing by Weight & Age
Essential dosing guidelines for pediatric medications.
Always Dose by Weight
Pediatric medications should be dosed based on the child's weight (mg/kg), not age. Age ranges on packaging are approximations. Ask your pharmacist to calculate the exact dose.
Use the Right Measuring Device
Always use the syringe or cup provided with the medication. Kitchen spoons are inaccurate and can lead to over- or under-dosing.
Acetaminophen Dosing
Standard dose: 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours, max 5 doses/day. Never exceed 75 mg/kg/day. Do not give to infants under 3 months without doctor advice.
Ibuprofen Dosing
Standard dose: 5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 hours, max 3 doses/day. Not recommended under 6 months. Give with food to reduce stomach upset.
Antibiotic Courses
Always complete the full course of antibiotics even if the child feels better. Stopping early can lead to antibiotic resistance.
Liquid vs. Tablet Pricing & Comparison
When to choose liquid medication vs. tablets or chewables.
| Factor | Liquid | Tablet/Chewable |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per dose | Generally more expensive | Usually cheaper |
| Accuracy | Very accurate with syringe | Fixed dose (easy) |
| Age suitability | All ages (newborn+) | Usually 6+ years |
| Taste/compliance | Flavored, easier for young kids | May be hard to swallow |
| Shelf life | Shorter (often 14 days once opened) | Longer (1-2 years) |
| Storage | Some need refrigeration | Room temperature |
| Travel convenience | Bulky, spillable | Compact, portable |
Provincial Children's Drug Programs
How each province covers prescription medications for children.
Ontario - OHIP+
Free prescription coverage for children and youth under 25 without private insurance. Covers over 4,400 medications including antibiotics, inhalers, and allergy medications.
Eligibility: Under 25, OHIP-eligible, no private plan
British Columbia - Fair PharmaCare
Income-based coverage for all residents. Plan C provides additional coverage for children in low-income families receiving premium assistance.
Eligibility: All BC residents (income-based deductible)
Alberta - Child Health Benefit
Covers prescription medications for children in low-income families. Also provides dental, optical, and ambulance coverage.
Eligibility: Children in families receiving Alberta Child Health Benefit
Quebec - RAMQ
All children under 18 are covered under their parents' drug insurance (public RAMQ plan or private). Public plan has monthly premiums based on income.
Eligibility: All Quebec residents must have coverage
Manitoba - Pharmacare
Income-based deductible program covers children's medications after the family deductible is met. Additional coverage under Children's Pharmacare for eligible families.
Eligibility: All Manitoba residents (income-based)
Nova Scotia - Family Pharmacare
Income-based program for all families. Children are covered under the family plan. No age limit restrictions for dependent children.
Eligibility: All NS residents (income-based copay)
Tips for Administering Medication to Kids
Practical advice to make giving medication easier for both parents and children.
Mix with Food (If Allowed)
Some liquid medications can be mixed with a small amount of food, juice, or applesauce. Check with your pharmacist first, as some medications cannot be mixed.
Chill the Medication
Cold liquid medication often tastes better. Refrigerate if allowed (check the label). You can also give a popsicle before dosing to numb taste buds.
Use a Syringe, Not a Spoon
Oral syringes are more accurate and easier for young children. Aim for the inside of the cheek, not the back of the throat, to prevent gagging.
Positive Reinforcement
Praise your child after taking medication. For older children, sticker charts or small rewards can help build a positive routine.
Explain Why (Age-Appropriate)
Tell older children why they need the medication in simple terms. Understanding the purpose often improves cooperation.
Ask About Flavoring
Many pharmacies offer flavoring services (FLAVORx) for liquid medications. Common flavors include grape, bubblegum, and strawberry. Usually costs $2-5.
Never Call Medicine 'Candy'
To prevent accidental ingestion, never refer to medication as candy or a treat. Store all medications out of reach of children.
Track Doses
Write down the time and dose each time you give medication, especially when alternating between acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Prevents accidental double-dosing.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult your child's pediatrician or pharmacist before administering any medication. Prices are estimates and may vary by pharmacy and province.