What Medicines Can I Give My Child?
Since infant’s bodies deal with medicines differently to adults, many drugs are not
suitable for them. Some are not recommended because clinical trials have not proven
their safety and effectiveness in children and some are not suitable due to their
potentially serious side effects. For example, although a link between the use of
aspirin and Reye’s syndrome remains unproven, because of the potential risk, children
under 16 years of age should not take aspirin, unless prescribed by a doctor.
Whatever the reason, you must ensure that the medicines you give your child are appropriate for their age. The product label will clearly state for which ages a medicine is suitable.
Using specially formulated children’s medicines can help to ensure you use the correct dose. Appropriate doses for infants vary depending on their age and sometimes their weight. It is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Most infants cannot swallow tablets easily until they are about 3 years old. Syrups and liquid suspensions are easier for them to swallow and most children’s oral medicines are available in these forms. Using oral medicines with a pleasant taste ensures that the infant takes it with less fuss. For young infants, it can be easier to administer some medicines using an oral syringe rather than a spoon, however, you should be careful to give them slowly into the side of the infant’s mouth, not into the back of the throat as this may cause choking.
Generally, you should avoid mixing medicines with your baby’s feed. Some medicines can react with milk and the amount of medicine received may be inadequate if your baby does not consume their entire feed. However, a few products (for example Gaviscon Infant) are specially formulated so that you can administer them in this way.
Use sugar-free medicines
Some children’s medicines contain large amounts of sugar which can increase the risk of tooth decay. However, most children’s medicines are now available in sugar-free forms (i.e. bonjela teething gel, Nurofen for children, Disprol Paracetamol Suspension).
If there is no alternative to using a medicine that contains sugar, make sure you remember to protect any teeth your child has by:
- giving the medicine at feeding/meal times if possible
- not giving the medicine last thing at night if possible
- cleaning their teeth after giving them their medicine.
Avoid additives and colourings
Some additives in medicines cause unwanted side effects in some children. The ingredients of each medicine are stated on the pack label, together with known possible side effects and precautions. Make sure you read these and always ask your pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure.
Some medicines are brightly coloured to encourage children to take them. However, many parents may prefer to avoid using brightly coloured medicines as there is some concern, although unproven, that these artificial colourings may be linked with allergic type reactions (e.g. asthma) and hyperactivity in some children.
