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Parent's Guide to Children's Medicines: Johns Hopkins Press Health Book

Yukio Mishima

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Published in A Parent S Guide To Children S Medicines (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book)

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As a parent, it's crucial to understand the different medications available to treat your children's illnesses. From over-the-counter remedies to prescription drugs, each medication has its own unique benefits, side effects, and risks. This guide will provide you with essential information about children's medicines, empowering you to make informed decisions about your child's healthcare.

Understanding Children's Medications

Children's medicines are specifically designed for the unique needs of children. They are formulated with lower dosages and different ingredients than adult medications. It's essential to never give an adult medication to a child without consulting a doctor.

A Parent's Guide to Children's Medicines (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book)

by Edward A. Bell

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5085 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	184 pages

Children's medicines come in various forms, including:

Oral liquids (syrups, suspensions, drops)
Tablets
Chewable tablets
Inhalers
Topical creams and ointments

Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are available without a prescription. They are typically safe for children when used appropriately, but it's important to read the labels carefully and follow the instructions.

Common OTC medications for children include:

Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
Fever reducers
Cough and cold medicines
Antihistamines
Laxatives

Prescription Medications

Prescription medications require a doctor's approval. They are used to treat more serious illnesses, such as asthma, allergies, and infections.

Common prescription medications for children include:

Antibiotics
Inhalers for asthma
Allergy shots
Anti-nausea medications
Growth hormones

Safe Medication Practices

Following safe medication practices is essential to protect your child from potential harm. Here are some important tips:

Always consult a doctor before giving any medication to your child.
Read medication labels carefully and follow the instructions.
Never share medications with your child or anyone else.
Store medications in a cool, dry place, away from children.
Dispose of expired medications properly.

When to Call a Doctor

If your child experiences any adverse reactions to medication, contact your doctor immediately. Signs of an allergic reaction include skin rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. Other symptoms to watch for include:

Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Pain that does not respond to medication
Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus)

Additional Resources

For more information about children's medicines, visit the following resources:

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/childrens-medicines
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety/Pages/default.aspx
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD): https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/childrens-medicines/conditioninfo/Pages/default.aspx

Understanding children's medicines is a crucial responsibility for parents. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can help ensure that your child receives the safest and most effective treatment possible.

Remember, always consult a doctor before giving any medication to your child, and never hesitate to seek medical attention if you have any concerns about your child's health.

A Parent's Guide to Children's Medicines (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book)

by Edward A. Bell

4 out of 5