When children have a cough, fever or cold, many parents often quickly give their children medicine to reduce symptoms. However, experts warn that self-medication, especially over-the-counter drugs, can pose many risks for children.
Cough, cold, or fever-reducing medications are often purchased and used without a doctor's prescription, especially for young children. Meanwhile, most acute respiratory diseases in children can be cured on their own and do not necessarily require medication.
According to Dr. Ravi Malik, Medical Director of Radix Healthcare, over-the-counter drugs, although easy to buy, are not always safe for children. Using the drug incorrectly or at the wrong dose can make the condition worse.
Drugs that easily cause overdose in children
Paracetamol is a common fever-reducing and pain-relieving drug, but it is also easy to cause poisoning if used in the wrong dose. Giving children to drink too close together or using many types of drugs containing paracetamol can cause liver damage.
Cough and cold syrups are also easily abused. Many products contain antihistamines, cough suppressants, nasal decongestants, and paracetamol at the same time. If used incorrectly, children may experience side effects such as excessive drowsiness, respiratory failure, or cardiovascular disorders. Many types of cough syrups are not recommended for children under two years old.
In addition, vitamin D and multivitamin preparations can also be dangerous if supplemented in overdose, leading to increased blood calcium, vomiting and kidney damage.
Why not use adult medicine for children?
Some parents divide adult medicine into smaller portions for children to drink. However, in young children, liver and kidney functions are not yet complete, so the medicine is metabolized and excreted slower, increasing the risk of toxicity.
The dose for children must be calculated based on weight and age. Minor errors in dosage can also lead to overdose or ineffective treatment. Some medications are safe for adults but can cause respiratory failure, hypoglycemia, or seizures in children.
Be careful with herbal medicine
Many herbal medicines do not have standard dosages for children and active ingredient concentrations may vary from product to product. Some products may also contain heavy metals, steroids, or alcohol but are not clearly labeled.
The use of these products can also delay taking children for timely examination and treatment.
How to care for children when they have a mild cold
With a cold or mild viral fever, supportive care is often more important than medication. Parents should give children enough water to drink, continue breastfeeding or drinking milk, and give children adequate rest.
You can wipe your body with warm water when your child has a fever and use physiological saline to reduce nasal congestion. Doctors recommend that medication should only be given to children when prescribed by medical staff.
