Medication for Children

Summer is here and it is time for camps, picnics, family reunions and vacations - WooHoo!!! Last week we talked about the Beers List for our older adult family members, this week we focus on our youngest family members with the KIDs List!

Summer seems to bring unusual sickness, whether from bites and stings or something regional from our travels. It is important to REALLY understand our kid's medication, especially if we have never heard of it. 

Kids process medications differently than adults -- and infants process some medications differently than older kids. That's a lot to absorb - literally! Fortunately, there's a great resource for parents and doctors. Use The KIDs List* from The Pediatric Pharmacy Association to help make sure your child takes medications that are safe for their age.

"Sweat the details" of every medication

Look up every medication your child takes (doctor-prescribed and drugstore remedies you pick up) and check against The KIDs List. Google all the names for each: meds go by a few different names!

Ask questions. Be cautious. 

Alert the doctor if a drug prescribed for your child is on The KIDs List.  Discuss potential alternatives;  if necessary, get a 2nd opinion.

It's OK to keep questioning doctors until you feel 100% comfortable that everything they recommend is right for your child. 
We know it can be hard to speak up!  So, if you ever need help finding your voice to advocate for your child, we're always happy to coach you from the sidelines -- or help you side-by-side. Whatever gives you peace of mind!