Hello, Momma-bears!
Welcome back to our QC Moms blog where we bring you the latest and greatest on raising your little cherubs (and surviving their tantrums!). Recently I was going through my medicine cabinet, throwing out really old, expired medications, rubs, and stuff, and began to reminisce on a time when I was a new mother and was dealing with the challenge of not always knowing what to give my kids for all the various ailments they came across.
It wasn’t easy to know what I could combine or what I should stay away from. So in today’s blog, I wanted to tackle an issue we all encounter in our motherhood journey: using popular over-the-counter (OTC) children’s medicine. From Motrin to Zyrtec, these medications can be life-savers, but beware – not all cough syrup is created equal. Now, I don’t profess to be an expert in any way, shape or form, but I’d like to share some things I picked up along the way that may be helpful. Let’s dive into the murky waters of OTC meds to make sure your parenting arsenal is as effective and safe as possible!
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Dosage Dilemmas: Less is More (But Not Always)
We’ve all been there: your child is wailing in the middle of the night, and you just want them to feel better. While it’s tempting to give them an extra dose of Tylenol, resist the urge! Overdosing on OTC meds can lead to dangerous side effects. Instead, follow the recommended dosage, and use a proper measuring device. Teaspoons from your kitchen drawer? So 2021 . Dosage cups and syringes are where it’s at, ladies!
Fun fact: Did you know that approximately 50% of parents give their children the wrong dosage? Don’t join the club!
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The Age-Old Age Debate
Most OTC medications have age recommendations, and these aren’t just for show. Some medicines, like aspirin, should never be given to children, while others, like Dimetapp and Robitussin, are a no-go for kids under 4. Always read the label and, when in doubt, consult your pediatrician. Remember, they’re just a phone call away from saving you from a potentially “sickening” situation.
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Mixing Meds: A Dangerous Cocktail
Just like mom’s night out, mixing things up can be a recipe for disaster. Combining certain OTC medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), can cause harmful side effects, so always check with your doctor or pharmacist before playing mad scientist. And remember, even the best cocktails should be consumed in moderation.
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Beware the Hidden Side Effects
Many OTC medications contain multiple active ingredients that can cause unexpected side effects. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl can cause drowsiness – a feature that may seem like a blessing for a fussy child but can lead to complications if you need them to be awake and alert. To avoid any “drowsy” mishaps, always read the label and be aware of possible side effects.
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The Expiration Date: It’s Not Just for Milk
As much as we’d love for our kids’ meds to last forever, they don’t. Expired medications like that ancient bottle of Children’s Motrin can lose their potency or even become harmful (ergo my recent cupboard cleanup). So, the next time you’re cleaning out your pantry, give your medicine cabinet a once-over too. Because, let’s face it, finding expired Tylenol from 2010 is like finding that questionable container of yogurt in the back of the fridge – neither is going to do you any favors.
So there you have it, super moms! The lowdown on popular OTC children’s medicine. With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle whatever curveball your little one throws at you. And remember, laughter is the best medicine, so don’t forget to share your hilarious parenting stories with us in the comments below!
Happy parenting, and until next time – may the force of motherhood be with you!
