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The following are suggested medications available over-the-counter
(OTC) in child formulations, that you might want to consider keeping
handy. These fall into three categories, medications for minor conditions
that most children experience at some time; problems that some children
experience from time to time; and relief from specific childhood
conditions. If in doubt about the suitability of an OTC medicine
for young children, ask your pharmacist.
If your child has suffered from any of the conditions mentioned
below you may want to consider keeping a small supply of an appropriate
self-medication treatment at home
Oral pain relief
Paracetamol or ibuprofen. Available in effervescent tablet,
powder and liquid form in child formulations. Suitable for
a wide range of aches and pains. They also have fever reducing
 (anti
pyretic) effect. (Remember that children under 16 must not
be given aspirin except on medical advice).
Cough preparations
Child formulations are available in liquid form to stop a cough
(suppressants) or loosen it (expectorants).
Other cold relief products
Decongestants for blocked noses are available as sprays, drops,
or in a form to rub on the chest or apply to clothes. Combination
remedies containing pain relievers and decongestants are available
in various formulations.
Antiseptics
Creams, solutions and ointments for treating minor cuts, grazes,
burns and insect burns. (Topical hydrocortisone is not recommended
for children under 12).
Treating problems experienced from time to time by some children
with OTC medications
Hayfever/allergy
Antihistamines are available in syrup form for young children. Suitable
for relief of hayfever and other allergies including skin conditions
such as hives. Eye drops containing either sodium cromoglycate or
xylometazoline for itchy, sore eyes caused by allergies.
Diarrhoea
Oral rehydration solutions, which may include effervescent tablets
to be dissolved in water, are most suitable for children.
 OTC
medications specific to young children
Wind and gripe
Child formulations are available to relieve the symptoms of wind
and gripe.
Teething
Gels containing local anaesthetics and pain relievers (analgesics)
are suitable for use in children under 2 years old, as are paracetamol
containing suspensions. Some may also contain antiseptics.
Rash/nappy rash
Specially formulated preparations can be used to prevent nappy rash.
These clean and protect the skin. They can also be used to relieve
the soreness associated with nappy rash. Most antiseptic creams
are also suitable for treating nappy rash.
Thermometer
Digital and forehead thermometers are available for use in children.
A child may have a fever if their temperature is over 38oC/100.4oF.
Guidelines for everyone on self-treating
safely
- Keep all medicines in a secure place, out of sight and
reach of small children and preferably where an adult can
keep an eye on them eg the kitchen
- Keep all medicines in their original container and take
precautions to avoid them being affected by heat and humidity
- Always read and follow the instructions, do not exceed
the stated dose or treatment period.
- Do not use or keep medicines past their sell-by date
- Women who are pregnant should consult their GP before
taking OTC medicines
- Always check with your pharmacist or practice nurse before
taking an OTC medicine if you are already taking any prescription
or complimentary medicines
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For more information on which products to buy for your medicine
chest visit
www.medicine-chest.co.uk
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