Knowing when to give your child medicine and when not to is essential during illnesses.
Know About Over-The-Counter Medications And How To Use Them
Just because you find it in the pediatric aisle of your local drugstore does not make it safe. Always read all labels! Know the proper dosage, the ingredients, and if it will interact with another medication your child is taking. Only then can you be sure the medicine is right for your child. Most over-the-counter medications are dosed by weight.
- Know how to measure the correct dosage.
- Have the proper dosing device, not just a kitchen spoon.
Overdosing a child can cause serious harm, but with care you can avoid causing an overdose.
Children should not be given aspirin because there is a potential serious disease that is caused by giving aspirin during an influenza illness.
Reach out to your pharmacist or Elmwood Pediatric Group if you have any questions or concerns, especially about multi-symptom medications and their effect on your child.
Fevers Don’t Always Need To Be Treated
A low grade fever means your child’s body is fighting off an infection. Therefore, you do not need to give medication (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) to reduce every fever. You should consider treating the fever with medication if your child is very uncomfortable or the fever is high. Make sure your child stays hydrated. Please call us if you think your child needs to be seen or if you have questions.
Know About Prescription Medications
If Elmwood Pediatric Group or another physician has prescribed a medication for your child, follow all the directions and use as directed. This includes using all of it even if your child is feeling better. Stopping an antibiotic, for instance, before completing the entire prescription can encourage the infection to return.
Read all the instructions carefully: with food or without, how many times a day, before meals or “take on an empty stomach,” and common side effects.
Pay attention also to unusual side effects like wheezing or difficulty breathing after taking a new RX medication as this could be an allergic reaction. Get medical help immediately.
Keep Elmwood Pediatric Group Informed
Always update your child’s doctor with all the medications they take, including over-the-counter medications. This includes vitamins, and other supplements like melatonin.
When In Doubt
Giving your child the right medicine, at the right time, and in the right amount are all critical. Call Elmwood Pediatric Group when you’re unsure.
Contact Elmwood Pediatric Group at (585) 244-9720 if you are not sure if your child’s symptoms warrant medical care or for other questions.
