Since 2007, however, there has been an EU regulation for medicines suitable for children. Since then, drug manufacturers have also had to test new preparations on minors (unless they are preparations intended only for adults, such as medications for an enlarged prostate).
No small adults
What helps adults can also harm children. Even supposedly harmless and over-the-counter medicines can be dangerous for little ones. For example, children should not be given acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for pain and fever. The active ingredient can cause life-threatening Reye’s syndrome, in which the brain and liver are severely damaged.
Special dosage forms
For this reason, medicines are often available in special dosage forms for children, for example as drops, juice, powder, granules or suppositories. Ask the pediatrician which dosage form is best for your child. Afterward, tell him or her if it worked.
Tips for parents
If you need to give your child medicine drops that must not be diluted, you can give them to your child directly into the mouth using a syringe (without a needle!). However, make sure that you adhere exactly to the prescribed amount.
Children who need to take medication regularly should be allowed to say which dosage form they like best (provided there are several alternatives).
Whether drops, juice, suppositories or other dosage forms – always stick to the dosage recommended by the doctor or pharmacist. NEVER change this on your own authority.
