A Prescription Primer

A Guide to Commonly Prescribed Medications for Children

By Alesia Hanson, Pharmacist

A sick day for a child becomes a busy day for parents: a doctor visit, prescriptions, going to the pharmacy and making the child comfortable at home. Here is some information to help parents identify what their child is taking. However, this information is not meant to supersede physicians' instructions. If there are any questions on a prescription, contact the prescribing physician or a pharmacist.

One of the most common ailments of babies is diaper rash. Most of the time it can be treated with over-the-counter products, but occasionally a prescription medication is needed to clear it up. The medication most often prescribed is Mycostatin®. It is also available as a generic called nystatin. Mycostatin® is an anti-fungal and is available in both a cream and an ointment. Used topically, nystatin rarely causes any side effects. It should be applied liberally over the affected area. Nystatin is also used orally for babies with thrush. The brand name of the suspension is Nilstat®. It should be shaken well before using and does not need to be refrigerated. It works best when given after a feeding because it works on contact. The longer it stays there, the better it works. It is OK for a baby to swallow the medication; it is not absorbed into the body. Because it is not absorbed, the only adverse effects are sometimes stomach upset and diarrhea.

Another condition affecting newborns and babies is gastro esophageal reflux. There are several medications in liquid form that are used to treat this. One is Reglan®, also available in generic as metoclopramide. This medication helps food move through the stomach more quickly. It is usually given before a meal and can cause drowsiness, restlessness and diarrhea. Also used for reflux are medications to help reduce the amount of acid in the stomach called H2 blockers. Zantac® (ranitidine) and Pepcid® (not available as generic in liquid form) are most often used. These can both be given with or without food and can cause constipation, diarrhea and rash.

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