Parents Must Know, These Are 3 Types of Medicines Your Child Should Avoid

In contrast to adults, the age group of children including babies is usually more susceptible to experiencing side effects from taking drugs. That is why, as a parent, you are required to be more observant and careful in sorting out which medicines for children to give and which are prohibited. Did you know what drugs should not be given to babies and children?

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Types of medicine for children that must be avoided

However the health condition of your child, you should always consult with a doctor regarding the administration of drugs for children. Instead of curing a child's illness, giving banned drugs can actually make the child's condition worse.

Here are some types of drugs that are not recommended for children:

1. Aspirin

Aspirin, which is sometimes written as salicylate or acetylsalicylic acid, is included in one drug for children that is not recommended. The reason is because in many cases, giving aspirin to children is often associated with Reye's syndrome.

Reye's syndrome is a dangerous condition characterized by damage to brain and liver function, which has the potential to make children experience seizures, coma, and even death when they cannot be helped. This syndrome can appear suddenly in children who take aspirin when they are experiencing flu or chicken pox.

Compared to using aspirin, children are advised to take Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) to relieve fever and pain.

2. Cold and cough medicines that are sold freely

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), cough medicines and over-the-counter (OTC) flu should not be taken by children under the age of 3 years. Because, the flu and cough medicine can cause various side effects that might not be able to be borne by the body of a child at an early age.

Effects that may occur on your child such as difficulty sleeping, stomach ache, red rash, and itching. In fact, some children can experience serious side effects such as palpitations, seizures, and death.

In certain conditions, children aged 4 years and over are allowed to take OTC flu and cough medicines only if recommended by a doctor with some special rules.

3. Anti-nausea medication

If the child has nausea and vomiting, you should not give anti-nausea drugs to relieve symptoms. Most cases of nausea and vomiting usually will not last long, can even recover quickly with adequate rest and without medication.

Giving anti-nausea medication to children is at risk of causing ongoing complications. New children are permitted to take this medicine only if advised by a doctor, and make sure you comply with the rules of consumption.

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