How to use DoseBuddy

DoseBuddy is a reusable, non-sterile syringe kit for measuring and giving liquid oral medicines. It's made for parents and caregivers giving medicine to children at home, and suits most liquid medicines unless a healthcare professional tells you otherwise.

Read these instructions fully before first use.

What's in the kit

DoseBuddy has four parts:

• A 10 mL glass barrel with etched measurement markings
• A plastic plunger with a silicone bung on the end
• A silicone sleeve
• A silicone medicine bottle cap

Markings are in millilitres, increasing in 0.25 mL increments.

Before you use it for the first time

Take DoseBuddy out of its packaging, take it apart, and wash each part separately in warm soapy water.

How to Use DoseBuddy®

1. Remove DoseBuddy from its packaging, disassemble and clean each component separately with warm soapy water before first use.
2. Place the DoseBuddy bottle cap over the neck of the medicine bottle, pushing down firmly to ensure a secure fit (see figure 1).
3. Insert the DoseBuddy syringe into the cap, pressing down firmly to ensure a secure fit (see figure 2).
4. Tip the bottle upside down and pull the plunger out slowly to draw up the prescribed dose.
5. If you notice an air bubble forming, push the contents of the syringe back into the bottle and redraw the dose.
6. Ensure the dose is drawn to the correct marking in line with the top of the glass syringe barrel while holding the device at eye level (see figure 3).
7. Administer gently into the child's mouth.

   How to clean DoseBuddy

   After every use:

   1. Take DoseBuddy fully apart before washing. Do not wash the glass barrel while it is still inside the silicone sleeve.
   2. Wash all parts separately in warm soapy water, or put them in the dishwasher cutlery holder.
   3. Let everything air dry completely before putting it back together.

   Store DoseBuddy in a dry place, out of direct sunlight.

   What not to do

   Do not boil DoseBuddy, microwave it, or put it in a steam steriliser. Any of these may degrade the product.

   Safety

   • Contains glass. Handle with care.
   • Use with adult supervision only, and keep out of reach of children.
   • Always replace the original childproof cap on the medicine bottle after use. Never leave a medicine bottle unsealed or within reach of a child.
   • Always follow the dosage instructions provided with the medication.
   • Inspect DoseBuddy before each use and stop using it if it is damaged.

   How accurate is DoseBuddy?

   DoseBuddy is not suitable for doses under 2.5 mL.

   For doses of 2.5 mL and above, measurement accuracy has been verified to within ±5% under controlled testing conditions.

   Will the cap fit my medicine bottle?

   The silicone cap is designed to be compatible with most commonly available children's liquid medicine bottles. Compatibility can vary between bottles, so check the cap sits securely before use.

   Are there any reasons not to use it?

   There are no known contraindications for the use of DoseBuddy. If you are unsure whether this product is appropriate for your child, please consult a healthcare professional before use.

   When to replace DoseBuddy

   DoseBuddy is reusable and durable. Replace it if you see signs of wear or damage.

   If you choose to dispose of it, do so with care — the barrel is made of glass and may break if not handled properly. Wrap it securely and dispose of it according to your local household waste or recycling guidelines. Keep it out of reach of children during disposal.

   Warranty and support

   DoseBuddy is covered by a 12-month limited warranty from the date of purchase. It covers manufacturing and material defects under normal use. Damage caused by accidents, misuse or improper care is not covered.

   If your DoseBuddy is faulty:

   • Bought from dosebuddy.co — email support@dosebuddy.co within 30 days of receiving it, with a photo or video showing the fault.
   • Bought from a pharmacy or other retailer — take it back to the shop you bought it from.

   Either way, you may be offered a repair, replacement or refund in line with our policy. This does not limit your rights under the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act.

   For questions, replacement parts or warranty information, email support@dosebuddy.co.