Given the importance of correct dosing of over-the-counter pediatric medicines, you would think that the labeling on the package and the dosing information would be clear and understandable for parents. Unfortunately, a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) says that is usually not the case, with potentially deadly results.

The study examined the directions and measuring devices in 200 non-prescription pediatric liquid medicines for allergy, cough and cold, pain and gastrointestinal problems, as well as some combination medicines, over one year ending Nov. 1, 2009.