The Use of Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines for Children

Instead of visiting a physician, most parents these days resort to self-medication, opting drugs that do not require any prescription. This is because over-the-counter meds are easy to obtain for those who want immediate solution to their health concerns.

Generally, these products are safe to use even if they are made up of general ingredients. This means that children can still take them in, especially for simple sickness. Some precautions should be observed though when buying them though. Read on and be guided.

• Be sure to read the labels. Before even letting them drink it, see to it that you carefully read the instructions printed on the package first. This is to ensure that the meds are administered properly.

• It is also recommended that you talk to a doctor first before deciding to give your young one more than one OTC drug at the same time. If an expert is not available, you can opt to seek advice from a pharmacist.

• Make sure that you faithfully follow instructions. For example, use specific tools such as dosing cups and droppers, and refrain from utilising spoons as a substitute because these utensils vary in size; therefore, their measurements are not reliable.

• Take note of the age requirement that is specified. For instance, you should not give aspirin to those who are below 20 years old. Also, kids who are under 6 years of age should not have OTC drugs as a cure to their colds and coughs as these may cause side effects since their bodies are not that developed yet. Common examples of these conditions are allergic reactions and sleeping abnormalities.

• Refrain from buying items that are not properly sealed. This is to ensure that the product you got is still working and has not reached its expiry date yet. Also, make it a habit to check the antibiotic first so that you would know if it has its normal colour or smell.

• When administering ibuprofen or paracetamol to kids, make sure that you do not give too much. Of course, you cannot afford to let your little one be overdosed. So, be very careful.

Remedies that do not have prescriptions can be really helpful for simple medical concerns; however, precautionary measures should always be observed to ensure safety and wellness.