CARE OF SICK CHILD: MEDICATIONS
A vast number of medications are available on prescription or over-the-counter. It would be impossible to list all medications and their possible side effects here. Your doctor can provide you with information about any medication that your child is taking.
All medicines are potentially poisonous if not taken according to directions. Always keep medicines out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cupboard.
If your child is taking medicine, give it to him at the specified times and he accurate with the dosage (amount). Use a measuring spoon or cup — do not guess the amount. If you forget to give your child a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and give the following dose at the correct time. Give the medicine for the exact period of time advised by your doctor — this advice is based on scientific research, not on a whim. Do not suddenly stop giving the medicine when the child is feeling better, unless it is on the doctor’s advice.
Any particular medicine should only be used by the person for whom it has been prescribed. It is not safe practice to borrow medicines from other people, not to give them to others. Do not give your child’s medicine to his brother or sister without consulting your doctor. This can be life-threatening. Some children can suffer serious side effects from even a small amount of a seemingly harmless substance.
Some medications interact with others, that is, they are not compatible with each other and may produce serious side effects. Always check with your doctor if your child is taking more than one medication at a time. All medicines have generic, or common, chemical names but are marketed under various brand names, which vary from country to country. The one medication may be marketed under different brand names. The brand names are usually printed in larger letters. Check the small print for the generic name.
Always discard medicines that are past their ‘use by’ date. This expiry date is always written on the container. Do not dispose of them in the rubbish. Take them to your chemist for disposal, or flush them properly down the toilet.
Remember that if you need to take any medication during pregnancy or when breastfeeding, this should be monitored by a doctor. Most medications should be avoided at these times, no matter how innocent they may seem, as they can be harmful to the baby. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication.
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