Managing a child's medication between two homes

Use current professional instructions

Medication should follow the current instructions from the child's doctor, pharmacist, or other qualified professional. Keep it in the original labelled packaging where possible. Check the child's name, medicine, dose, timing, route, expiry date, and storage requirements before it moves between homes.

This guide is general practical information, not medical advice. If a label, dose, missed dose, side effect, or instruction is unclear, contact a qualified professional rather than guessing or relying on an old message.

Hand over the essential details

• The last dose given, including the date and time
• The next dose due and the current instructions
• The amount supplied and any refill already requested
• Storage needs, such as refrigeration or protection from light
• Any new reaction, missed dose, or professional advice
• The contact details for the relevant doctor, clinic, or pharmacy

Keep the handover factual and brief. Confirm receipt when an essential item changes hands. The child should not be expected to remember when a dose was given or explain a change in treatment between adults.

Reduce avoidable gaps and duplicate doses

Use one current source for the routine and remove outdated copies. If safe and permitted, ask the prescriber or pharmacist whether supplies can be available in both homes. Never split, relabel, or transfer medicine into another container unless a qualified professional says it is appropriate.

Check supplies before weekends, travel, and public holidays. Plan who requests and collects a refill, then share confirmation. For school hours, follow the school's medication process and make sure each home knows what the school has administered.

Keep the shared record current

Parenting Apart includes medication and allergy fields in each child's profile, shared handover checklists, calendar events, and messages. These can help parents keep practical details visible, but they do not replace the prescription label, a clinician's instructions, or urgent medical care.

Update the shared details after a professional changes the medicine or dose. State the date the new instruction begins and remove the old routine from active checklists. Keep health information limited to what is needed for the child's care.

Common questions