Cough Medicines and Young Children

Question 1: Can children under six be given cough and cold medications without a doctor's prescription?

Answer 1: No, kids under six should not be given cough and cold medications without a doctor's prescription. We are very deliberate about the medicines we give our kids and the reasons are numerous so do not ask your doctor for cough medicines for your kids.

Question 2: What should parents do if their child is not yet two years old and has a cough and cold?

Answer 2: If a child is not yet two years old, cough and cold medications are inappropriate. Parents should consult their child's pediatrician for guidance. There are many things that can cause those symptoms and a proper diagnosis is much more important than medicines.

Question 3: Is it recommended to give a child multiple medications for different symptoms simultaneously?

Answer 3: It is not recommended to give a child a combination of medicines composed of several ingredients to address different symptoms, especially for kids under six years old. The dosage may be tricky, and it's best to avoid this practice. Instead take the time to see a doctor who is comfortable with kids so that the proper treatment can be determined.

Question 4: Can children be given medicine for fever to make them more comfortable and ease up the fever?

Answer 4: Yes, children can be given medicine to lower a high fever and make them more comfortable. However, it's important to consult a doctor for proper guidance on dosage and medication choice. Some conditions may require that one avoids certain medicines under certain circumstances so talking with the child's doctor may be the best solution.

Question 5: How should medications be stored to ensure child safety?

Answer 5: All medicines, including dosing tools and syringes, should be kept out of the reach of children. Medicines should be stored at room temperature, away from sunlight and moisture, and unused or expired medicines should be appropriately discarded unless otherwise stated on the medication pack.

Question 6: What are the general guidelines for purchasing medicines for children?

Answer 6: When purchasing medicines for children, it is important to check that the medicine is the correct one according to the doctor's prescription, including the generic name. Reading the medicine's label, checking for tampering or damage, and verifying the expiration date are also essential steps. Additionally, different forms of medication are suitable for different age groups.

Question 7: How can liquid medications for children be administered safely and effectively?

Answer 7: Liquid medications should be administered based on the appropriate dosage for the child's age or weight. Here at Omega Pediatrics, we prefer weight in the metric from, as in kilograms. It is recommended to use dosing tools provided with the medication, such as medicine cups, dosing spoons, or droppers. Regular kitchen spoons should not be used as they may vary in size and accuracy. We all remember how grandma's teaspoon has a different size from the one you saw at your best friend's parents' cabin.

Question 8: What are some commonly prescribed medications for children?

Answer 8: Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are commonly used medications for fever and pain relief in children. Saline nasal sprays or drops and bulb suctioning can help alleviate cold symptoms. Antihistamines are used for allergies and itching, while hydrocortisone cream or ointment can provide relief for itching and skin irritations.

Question 9: How does a pediatrician determine the right treatment for a child?

Answer 9: A pediatrician considers the child's symptoms, specific needs, and psychosocial aspects when determining the appropriate treatment. Physical examinations and, if necessary, laboratory tests or higher-level diagnostics are conducted. The pediatrician may also involve the child in decision-making, especially for older kids. It is not uncommon to find teenagers who would prefer an injection to pills, or 16 year old who says she would rather take liquid medicine or a shot than to swallow pills.

Question 10: What should parents do if their child experiences side effects from medication?

Answer 10: If a child experiences side effects from medication, parents should inform their pediatrician immediately. The doctor will provide instructions on what to do next, such as discontinuing the medication, changing the dosage, or prescribing an alternative. It's important to communicate all relevant details and observations to the doctor. If, however, the child seems to be experiencing a compromised breathing or facial swelling/puffiness, that is anaphylaxis and an emergency. Under such circumstances, parents should be calling an ambulance and emergency services.

Pediatric Medications: What Every Parent Should Know - Roswell, Alpharetta, Milton | Omega Pediatrics