Someone I know is constantly giving her child over the counter medicine. It not always the same medicine. It shifts between some kind of cold medicine such as children's cough and cold and allergy medicine such as children's benidryll. I see the child taking these medicines at least every weekend probably more often then that. Is this bad for the child? How often is too often?

Is the child ill? Medication should be given only when sick.

I don't believe so sometime they have runny nose but no fevers or coughing.

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Originally Posted by J_9

Is the child ill? Medication should be given only when sick.

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Have you spoken to this person? What is your relationship with them?

They are a friend but they are very touchy when it comes to how they raise their children. I just wanted to know if it is harmful. That way I could speak with them if it is.

Yes. It can be harmful, it really depends on what medication. Benadryl can become addictive to the point where the child cannot sleep without it. If the medication contains Tylenol, overuse/overdose can cause liver failure.