Medications side effects and reaction

All medications have the potential to cause adverse side effects.  Adverse effects are undesirable experience associated with the use of a medical product in a patient.  Some of the side effects of medications include the following :

• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Change in activity or mood
• Flushing , sweating
• Rahes
• Rapid heartbeat

The effect of medication can vary from person to person. For example antihistamine can make  one child sleepy while another child becomes jittery and hyperactive.

The side effect of one medication cal also be different from the side effect of another mediation. A fast heart rate is expected for albuterol but not antibiotics . Antibiotics usually causes diarrhea or loose stool .

Allergic reactions

Allergic reaction may cause different types of symptoms

• swelling
• rash
• difficulty breathing

Allergic reactions range from mild to severe ( life threatening ).

What to do during an emergency ( Call 911 vs poison control )

You should call 911 when you see signs of distress such as

• Loss or change  of consciousness
• Blue color or difficulty breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swelling of lips, tongue or face or drooling
• Seizure activity
• Rapidly spreading rash or hives
• Impaired speech or mobility
• Getting worse quickly
• When in doubt

Call poison control  ( 1800-222-2222) when

• Medication is given to the wrong child
• The child is given a wrong medication
• The wrong dose is given ( overdose)
• A medication is given by the wrong route or using a wrong procedure
• A medication is given at the wrong time and it results in an extra dose

NOTE

The American Academy of Pediatrics no longer recommends that syrup of ipecac is used.