Children’s health: Dos and don’t of medicines

Introduction

Children’s health is a major concern for parents. When your child is ill or needs medication, it’s important to know which medicines are right for his or her age, weight and condition. This article presents the medications to consider and avoid for your child’s health, and suggests best practices to ensure healthy development.

Which medicines are right for children’s age and weight?

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to pediatric drugs . The child ‘s age and weight are important factors in choosing the right medication . Below are some commonly used medications and how to administer them according to your little one’s age and weight.

• Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is a medication commonly used to reduce fever and relieve pain in children. Dosage should be calculated according to the child’s weight, and is usually around 10 to 15 mg per kilogram of body weight, administered every 4 to 6 hours. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and do not exceed the recommended dose.

• Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is another anti-inflammatory drug often used to reduce fever and relieve pain. It is generally administered to children over 6 months of age. Dosage also depends on the child’s weight, but should not exceed 10 mg per kg every 6 to 8 hours.

• Antibiotics : use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed by your doctor. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment. Make sure you don’t forget to take this medicine, and don’t stop taking it even if your symptoms improve.

• Cough and cold remedies: Do not give cough and cold remedies to children under the age of 4, unless advised by a doctor. These drugs can be ineffective and cause undesirable side effects in young children.

Which drugs to avoid in children

It is very important to know which medications to avoid for children, as some medications may be dangerous or inappropriate for their age. Here are some examples of drugs to avoid in children.

• Aspirin: Aspirin should never be given to children or adolescents with a viral infection, as it is associated with a potential risk of Reye’s syndrome, a serious and fatal disease.
• Cough and cold medicines for children under 4: As mentioned above, these medicines may not be effective in young children and may present potential risks.
• Over-the-counter drugs: Never give your child prescription drugs that have not been specifically prescribed by your doctor. Dosage and type of medication vary considerably from one child to the next.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for chickenpox or flu: NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can be associated with complications in children with chickenpox or flu. In these situations, always consult your doctor before administering these drugs.

Good practices for healthy children :

In addition to choosing the right medication, there are other good practices to follow to keep your child healthy.

• Consult a healthcare professional: Always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional if your child is ill or needs medication. A pediatrician will give you precise advice on the appropriate treatment.
• Follow dosing instructions: Read the drug label carefully and follow dosing instructions. Use a meter suitable for the liquid.
• Keep medicines out of reach: To avoid any risk of accidental ingestion, always keep medicines out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked place.
• Stay alert for side effects: Monitor your child closely for undesirable side effects. If you notice any unexpected reactions, contact your doctor immediately.
• Medication education: Inform children about the risks associated with medication and self-medication. They must be taught never to take medication without permission.

Conclusion

Children’s health is a top priority for parents and doctors alike. Choosing the right medication for your child’s age, weight and health, and avoiding potentially dangerous drugs, can contribute to healthy development. However, it is still important to consult your doctor for advice specific to your child’s situation. By following these best practices, you can better manage your child’s health and provide the best possible care.