Could this be a wake-up call? After numerous reports of serious adverse events, the FDA has withdrawn the use of cough and cold medicines for infants and children.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the medications are ineffective and can often produce serious side effects. Research studies also indicate that many of the problems associated with giving cough and cold medications to infants and children are the result of administering more than the recommended amount, giving too many doses of the medication or giving several different medications that contain the same ingredients.
If this is true for cough and cold medicine, is this a wake-up call about the administration of any over the counter medication?
Just because over-the-counter (OTCs) medications are available without a prescription it doesn’t mean they are harmless. As nurses, we need to remind ourselves and our patients that not unlike prescription medications, OTCs need to be taken as directed to avoid potentially serious side effects. Nurses can help to prevent medication errors by advising their patients to:
Read and understand medication instructions before taking them (and especially before giving them to the elderly or a child). Call your healthcare provider with any questions.
Prepare medications in good light so you can see the medication
Take the medication as directed
Stick to the medication schedule. Don’t double a dose, check with your healthcare provider before making any adjustments
Give the right amount, measure liquid medications carefully
If a medication is based on weight, make sure you have an accurate weight; in children, age related dosing may not be correct.
Finish all of the prescribed medication
Do not combine the medication with certain foods (such as milk or juice) since they can affect how the medication works.
Do not crush or alter extended release medications or they will become ineffective
Store medications in a cool dry place (unless directed otherwise). The bathroom is not a good choice due to increases in humidity that can sometimes affect the effectiveness of medication.
Special considerations for children include the use of child resistant caps, using dosing spoons (home measuring spoons are often not accurate), droppers and syringes. If a medication comes with its own dosing cup, be careful not to mix cups with another medication too.
For more information, visit the AAP Web site.