In parenting, we naturally want to stop every discomfort our children experience, and help them to feel better from achy muscles to sore throats. But are we over medicating our children? Do you go right to the medicine cabinet the minute your child has a cough, sniffle or sneeze?
Giving the Correct Dosage of Medication
A study conducted in Australia has confirmed that some parents are doing just that. Parents, grandparents and caregivers were asked when they give pain medication to their children. Fifteen percent admitted to giving pain medication to children without even taking their temperatures, while nearly half would give an incorrect dosage and ended up over medicating.
If you watch a mere ten minutes of television, chances are you will see at least one commercial selling an over the counter medication. Furthermore, Americans fill more prescriptions than any other country in the world. Last year, pharmaceutical companies made more than $250 billion in sales.
More and more children are being diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder and other related disorders. In 2006 alone, more than 4.5 million children were diagnosed with ADHD and medicated for its symptoms. This has been cause for concern among physicians and parents alike.
Causing just as much concern is the amount of children’s medications available over the counter in any drug or food store. It?s no wonder our kids are being deemed the Generation-RX. There are pain relievers, stuffy nose medications and cold prevention products everywhere.
What to Do if Your Child Needs Medication
If your child is ill, start by calling your pediatrician to see if your child needs to be seen. Ask if there are natural remedies for mild ailments your child is experiencing. You will be surprised at how many healthy options there are to help your child feel better.
Remember your mother making you gargle with salt water? Mom knew best then, and your child’s doctor can help you to determine when home remedies will do the trick or when it?s time to turn to safe medication.
