Pharmaceutical care for infants and children

The Role of Pharmacy

The care of babies and children requires special attention, especially when it comes to medication. Their bodies are fragile and their doses differ greatly from those of adults. Therefore, pharmacy plays a crucial role in providing pharmaceutical care to this young target group. From dispensing medication to offering advice to parents, pharmacy is an indispensable link in children's health care.

Commonly used medications

The most common medications for babies and children can be divided into several categories, depending on the type of condition:

  1. Paracetamol

    Paracetamol is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for children. It is used for pain relief and fever reduction in infections such as the flu or cold. It is important that parents follow the pharmacist's recommended dosages, which depend on the child's weight and age. Overdosing can be dangerous, as babies and young children are more sensitive to the side effects of medications.

  2. Antibiotics

    Antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, are often prescribed for bacterial infections, such as middle ear infections or pneumonia. A pharmacist often stresses the importance of completely finishing the course of antibiotics, even if the child is already feeling better. This prevents bacteria from becoming resistant to the medication, a growing problem in modern health care.

  3. Airway medication

    For children with asthma or bronchitis, airway medications such as salbutamol (via inhalers or nebulizers) are often prescribed. Pharmacists teach parents and children how to use inhalers properly, as the wrong technique can reduce the effectiveness of treatment.

  4. Allergy medications

    For children with allergies, antihistamines, such as cetirizine, are often prescribed. These medications help relieve symptoms such as itching, sneezing and rashes. For babies, there are often special child-friendly forms such as drops or syrups, which the pharmacy carefully measures.

  5. Vitamins and Supplements

    Babies are often prescribed vitamin D drops especially in the first years of life. These are essential for healthy bone development. The pharmacy provides advice on the proper use of these supplements and ensures accurate measurement of the dosage.

Tips

The pharmacist plays an important role in advising parents on the proper use of medications in babies and children. Here are some important tips:

  • Always follow the correct dosage:The dosage of medication for children is often based on their weight. It is essential to follow the doctor's or pharmacist's instructions to avoid under- or overdosing.
  • Watch for side effects: Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of medications. If a child's reaction is unusual, such as extreme fatigue or a skin rash, it is important to contact the doctor or pharmacist immediately.
  • Use tools: Some medications, such as antibiotics or inhaled medications, may require devices such as syringes or masks. The pharmacist can explain how to use these properly.
  • Storage medications safely:Medications should always be kept out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.

What else we do for babies and children

In addition to dispensing medication, we offer other services specifically geared toward babies and children:

  • Customized advice: The pharmacist takes the time to advise parents on the proper use of medication, possible side effects and how best to support the child during treatment.
  • Magistral preparations: Sometimes medications are not available in child-friendly forms, such as syrup or smaller tablets. Pharmacists can then prepare medications specifically for children (magistral preparation), so that treatment is better tailored to their needs.
  • Vaccination advice: Many pharmacies offer advice on the vaccinations children need and can help with understanding the vaccination schedule.
  • Control and prevention: Pharmacists help parents monitor their children's medication use and can offer advice on preventive measures, such as boosting immunity or tips for chronic conditions.