Certain medications should be avoided in children due to their potential for harm or because they have not been adequately studied for pediatric use. Here are a few types of medicines that are generally advised against in children:
- Aspirin: Children and teenagers recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should never take aspirin, due to its association with Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can harm the liver and brain.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines: These are not recommended for children under the age of 4 (and some healthcare providers extend this to under 6 years old) due to the risk of side effects and the lack of evidence for their effectiveness in this age group.
- Certain Antidepressants: Some antidepressants (like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs) have been linked with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children and teenagers.
- Tetracycline antibiotics: These types of antibiotics, including doxycycline and minocycline, are not usually recommended for children under the age of 8, as they can stain the child’s growing teeth.
- Certain adult medications: Many medicines designed for adults, even if they seem harmless, can be dangerous for children due to differences in metabolism, kidney function, and other factors that affect how a child’s body processes the medication. A medicine’s effect can be more intense or last longer in children, leading to increased risk of side effects.
Always consult a healthcare provider before giving any medication to a child. Even for over-the-counter drugs, it’s important to use the correct dosage and formulation for the child’s age and weight. Remember that medication is not always needed for minor illnesses, many of which will resolve on their own with time and supportive care.