QUINCY, ILL. -- Every medication, even things like cough syrup, comes with warnings and possible side effects.
It's a growing problem as more than a half million kids nationally have bad reactions or side effects to medicines every year. Research shows sometimes those reactions require medical treatment or even hospitalization.
Medication side effects are really common these days, and can happen as frequently in children as they do in adults.
Pharmacist say there are many reasons why medication side effects are more problematic in children. The first reason is obvious, babies and young children can't communicate the side effects or problems they're experiencing. Second, it's all about how medication is given.
Medicines have to be given in exact doses based on a child's weight, but many times parents aren't sure on how to measure liquid medications. So that leaves a lot of room for error.
Click here for information on children's medications.
One way to avoid problems is to dose your child according to the accurate weight taken during your most recent doctor's visit.
And use the right tools. Don't use teaspoons and tablespoons from your house. Get an appropriate medication dispensing spoon from your pharmacy or local drug store.
Some common side effects of medication include diarrhea, urine or feces discoloration, and drowsiness. But look out for others...because every child handles medication differently.
But most important, be on the look out for serious allergic reactions to the medications, one of the most dangerous is shortness of breath after the first or second dose. That is a life threatening situation...and requires a call to 9-1-1
The best way to avoid a complication is to be proactive, by asking questions about side effects in the doctor's office or pharmacy. Always take a list of your child's allergies and current medications to each appointment. And pay attention to labels. There you will find very important dosage and storage information, which will make a huge difference in its effectiveness.
There are some other ways to be proactive at the doctor's office.
Try asking these questions:
What is the medication for?
What can I expect from this medication?
What are the most common side effects?
What do I do if I see these in my child?
When should I call your office with concerns?
How do I give the right dose?
How should I store the medication?
Also, always take a list of your child's allergies and current medications to each appointment. Also pay attention to labels. There you will find very important dosage and storage information. Instructions like how to shake the medication and whether to keep it refrigerated will make a big difference in the drug's effectiveness for your child.
For more information log onto www.kidsmeds.info http://www.kidsmeds.info, a site specifically dedicated to helping parents prevent medication overdoses and side effects. It will also help you develop a medication list and answer common questions about medication specifically in children.
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