Dosage basics: how to take the right amount of medicine

Getting the right dosage matters more than most people think. Too little and the medicine won’t work. Too much and you risk side effects or worse. This page gives clear, practical tips so you can read labels, measure doses, and avoid common mistakes without the jargon.

Read the label — every time

Start by reading the label and the patient leaflet. Look for the active ingredient, strength (for example, 500 mg), and how often to take it. Note whether it says "once daily," "every 8 hours," or another schedule. Pay attention to special instructions like "take with food," "do not crush," or "extended-release." If a label shows different doses for adults and children, follow the one that matches you or ask a pharmacist.

Watch the units: mg (milligrams) tells you how much drug is in a tablet or capsule. mL (milliliters) is used for liquids. Teaspoons and tablespoons are imprecise—use the syringe or dosing cup that comes with the medicine. If none is included, pick a pharmacy syringe or an oral dosing cup rather than a kitchen spoon.

Practical tips for common dosing problems

For kids, dosing is often weight-based. Do not guess—use the child’s current weight and the dosing chart on the leaflet or ask the pharmacist. Never round up a child’s dose without checking.

If you split pills, only cut solid tablets designed to be split. Don’t split capsules or extended-release pills unless the label or your doctor says it’s OK. A pill cutter gives a more even split than breaking by hand.

Missed a dose? For many drugs, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Don’t double up unless your prescriber approves. If the medicine affects sleep or blood pressure, timing errors can have real effects—call your provider if you’re unsure.

Mixing medicines and alcohol or certain foods can change how a drug works. Grapefruit juice, for example, affects many heart and cholesterol medicines. Check interactions using a reliable source or ask a pharmacist when you get a new prescription.

Keep track: use a pillbox, an app, or a simple checklist. For complex schedules, ask your pharmacist to write out a clear timetable. Store medicines as directed—some need refrigeration, others must stay dry and cool.

If you ever doubt the dose, stop and ask. Pharmacists are a great, quick resource for dose questions, measurement tools, and side-effect signs to watch for. When in doubt, call your healthcare provider before changing how you take a medication.

Treat dosing seriously but don’t panic. A little care reading labels, measuring accurately, and checking interactions keeps most dosing problems from happening.