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Non-prescription drugs like ibuprofen are used to relieve pain caused by minor ailments like the common cold, flu, headache or toothache. It can also be used to control body temperature during fever. Being an over-the-counter medicine, ibuprofen is easily accessible. However, due to its convenience, we often take for granted that it may pose dangers to our health if not taken with caution. In particular, the risks of ibuprofen for children are great. If taken in high doses, ibuprofen can conversely make a child severely ill.
Risks of ibuprofen overdose
Ibuprofen can ease mild pain, aches, and swelling, but if consumed frequently or over long periods of time, can cause stomach or heart problems.
Studies have found that high doses of ibuprofen could increase the chances of cardiac arrest and other heart problems by 31 per cent. Research has also shown that ibuprofen doubled the likelihood of a major heart event. High dosages of ibuprofen can also increase the risk of stroke.
Besides the heart, overdosing on ibuprofen has been found to cause damage to the stomach and intestines. Symptoms like dark urine, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and yellowing skin are signs that there is damage to the liver.
Other common side effects of ibuprofen include nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhoea. Ibuprofen can also raise blood pressure.
Ibuprofen and pregnancy
Pregnant mothers should refrain from taking ibuprofen unless prescribed by their doctors. It is not recommended for pregnant mothers in their first and last trimesters to take ibuprofen as it might interfere with labour and cause health complications to their newborns.
Ibuprofen can pass into breast milk in small quantities, hence it is more unlikely to cause harm to your infant while breastfeeding.
Tips for giving ibuprofen to children
- Check the expiration date – Medication that is past its expiration date should not be consumed. Throw it away and purchase a new set.
- Check the recommended dosage – Ibuprofen comes in various forms, such as tablets, capsules or liquids. Different forms and concentration have various potency, hence it is imperative to check the recommended dosage to prevent overdosing.
- Check if other medications contain ibuprofen in them – Ibuprofen is a common ingredient used in cough and cold medication. If your child is taking more than one type of medicine, check with your doctor if they contain ibuprofen.
- Identify your child’s weight – The appropriate dosage for each child is dependent on his/her weight. Read the packaging label on the medicine to find the correct dose for your child.
- Refrain from prescribing it to children younger than two years old – Always consult a doctor and seek their approval first if you are unsure whether your child is fit to be on ibuprofen medication.
While over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen is readily accessible to remedy common ailments, it should be consumed with care. Seek a doctor’s advice if you are unsure of the dosage to take, especially for young children. You can make an appointment with a doctor on GetDoc today.
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by waiyee
Film junkie. Matcha drinker. Dog lady. Will write for food. View all articles by waiyee.
