Preventing Drug Reactions in Children
Small Bodies Need a Gentle, Natural Approach to Medicine
Sep 28, 2009
Cold and flu season is fast approaching amongst new information from a study indicating that an average of over half-a-million kids per year experience bad drug reactions to medications. Many parents may be up in arms regarding treatments and medications, especially with flu season fast approaching.
The Study
The study, funded by the National Library of Medicine and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, was performed between the years of 1995 and 2005. The average number of children who experienced drug reactions per year during those years was 585,922. Children most often affected were those under the age of 5 years and the drugs most often causing the reactions were Penicillin and other prescription antibiotics. Reactions recorded included those of prescribed drugs only. Lead author Dr. Florence Bourgeois' advice to parents is to watch children for possible first-time drug reactions when taking any new drug because "first-time medication exposures may reveal an allergic reaction."
Children and Medication
The cited study shows that exposure to prescription drugs in children under 5 years of age is a risky practice. The study does not, however, take into account reactions to over the counter drugs, nor does it present any long term affects that drug reactions might have on children. Information in these areas warrants further study.
Children: Not Little Adults
Often children are treated like small adults when it comes to medications. It is important to note that this is not the case. The sensitive bodies of small children need special care, not just smaller doses of medication made for and administered to adult patients. Systems in children are not fully developed. Their growing bodies need a gentle effective approach.
Fever Misconception
Although fever can be a frightening phenomenon, it is actually the body's best defense against foreign invaders. Parents should consult their physician regarding fevers, which, at times could signal danger, while also realizing that they are a natural part of the healing process of the body. Hippocrates who said "Give me a fever, and I can cure any illness," believed that the danger was actually in not getting a fever during a sickness. He believed fever to be a valuable symptom and aid in healing.
Gentler More Natural Approaches
Experiencing the sight, sounds and feeling of an unwell child can be almost unbearable, especially for the parents. So what can parents do for their children when an illness is not an emergency?
- Homeopathic remedies, both gentle and effective, can be used for prevention, aid in symptom relief and speed in healing. Check with your local natural health store to see which homeopathic is right for your child.
- Probiotics help to strengthen the immune system by providing good bacteria. Studies have shown that probiotics may prevent altogether or shorten the length of an illness.
- A careful diet with plenty of sleep will help to prevent an oncoming illness. Pay close attention to any food allergies and bedtimes to ensure proper health. Make sure children are getting proper nutrients to support their immune systems.
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