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What Baby Medicine Is Appropriate When Your Baby Is Sick?

 

Your baby’s age and illness will determine what baby treatment is appropriate. You should always make sure that you are giving the correct medicine for your child’s age. Dosages for babies younger than six months are not usually listed on the bottle, since the weight of your child is the deciding factor in how much you should give him. Call your doctor to find out the appropriate dosage for a child under six months old. For infants 6-24 months, infant acetaminophen or infant ibuprofen are available. These will help to lower fevers and can help with the aches and pains associated with minor ailments.

These medicines are in liquid form to make them easier to give to your child; however, you might still have a struggle to get her to take it. Older children may take it easier if you mix it with a small amount of juice in a sippy cup. For babies, direct the syringe toward the inside of their cheeks and then gently rub. This will help stimulate a swallow reflex. Take it slow, and do it in increments. If baby spits some out, do not attempt to add to the dose, as you risk giving her too much.

What You Should Never Give Your Baby

  • You must never give babies adult-strength medicine. This could be life-threatening.
  • Never give babies or children medicine with aspirin in it. In children with viral infections, it can be extremely dangerous, and is linked to Reyes Syndrome which seriously damages the liver and brain. Only use under specific instruction from your child’s doctor.
  • You must always use the syringe or the measuring cup that comes with the medicine. Not doing so risks overdose.

  • Never give more than the recommended amount.

Things to Check Before Giving Any Baby Treatment

Before giving your child any medication, make sure you know:

  • That your doctor approves this medicine.
  • That it’s the right medicine for your child’s age.
  • The correct dose, based on your child’s weight.
  • How often you can administer it.
  • What possible side effects there are, so that you know what to watch out for.
  • That you know how to properly store it.
 
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