Leucomycin Treatment for Allergies in Children

The treatment regimen for the antibiotic leucomycin?

Hello, doctor.
My child is 4 years old and has been experiencing nasal allergies.
Since October of this year, we have been troubled by a runny nose, nasal congestion, and phlegm.
We have visited the pediatrician several times, and the symptoms vary; sometimes there is less coughing, and other times less nasal discharge, but the runny nose, nasal congestion, and phlegm persist.
Last week, the nasal discharge turned yellow, so I took my child to the ENT specialist.
The doctor diagnosed my child with allergies but noted some infection, so they prescribed leucomycin antibiotics.
The doctor gave me two options: 1.
If the symptoms improve, there's no need to return; if not, come back.
2.
Consider long-term nasal treatment (at least for this winter).

After taking the antibiotics, the yellow nasal discharge has resolved, but my child still has a runny nose, nasal congestion, and phlegm issues.
I chose option "1" because I do not want my child to keep taking medication.
However, I read online that antibiotics should be taken for a specific duration, so I returned for a second consultation.
The doctor prescribed the same antibiotic again and initially suggested adding a long-term oral medication (to be crushed and taken regularly), but I declined due to the numerous medications my child has taken over the past three months.

From these two consultations, the doctor did not provide a clear answer, which has left me confused.
Should I stop the antibiotics after finishing the two prescriptions (6 days), or should they be taken for 10 days? Or was the doctor just prescribing them as a preventive measure, meaning that three days of treatment would suffice? I am worried that not following the prescribed course could lead to antibiotic resistance.
Will these medications burden my child's small body? I would appreciate your clarification.
Thank you.

Winnie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/22

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello Winnie,
Common symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, yellow-green nasal discharge, fever, facial pain, foul smell, and changes in smell, but not all symptoms may be present.
Diagnostic methods include endoscopy and imaging studies.
If acute sinusitis persists despite antibiotic treatment for more than two weeks, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist for bacterial culture.
If a more virulent strain of bacteria is identified, it may be necessary to switch to a stronger antibiotic.

I recommend purchasing a nasal irrigation device (containing isotonic saline) and using it 1-2 times daily to enhance the treatment of sinusitis.
Additionally, avoid staying up late, refrain from smoking, and individuals with diabetes should control their blood sugar levels.
If sinusitis has not improved after 2-3 months of treatment, it is highly likely to be chronic sinusitis, which requires further evaluation.
If necessary, surgical intervention may be needed, and I suggest consulting an otolaryngologist for assessment.

As for which antibiotic to use and the duration of treatment, a direct examination of the patient is required to provide an accurate answer.
If symptoms persist, please seek evaluation from an otolaryngologist.

Wishing you peace and health.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun
Director, Department of Otolaryngology
Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2017/12/22

More Info

When it comes to treating allergies and infections in children, particularly with medications like Leucomycin (a type of antibiotic), it’s essential to understand both the nature of the condition and the implications of antibiotic use. Your concerns about your child's ongoing symptoms of nasal congestion, runny nose, and phlegm are valid, especially given the complexities of pediatric allergies and infections.

Leucomycin is often prescribed for bacterial infections, and while it can be effective in treating certain infections, it is not typically the first line of treatment for allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or other allergy-related symptoms. Allergies in children can manifest as nasal congestion, runny nose, and even post-nasal drip, leading to phlegm production. These symptoms can be exacerbated by environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
In your case, the yellow nasal discharge suggests a possible secondary bacterial infection, which is why the ENT specialist may have prescribed Leucomycin. However, it’s crucial to note that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, which are common in children and can also cause similar symptoms.
Regarding the duration of antibiotic treatment, it is generally recommended to complete the full course prescribed by the physician, which is often around 7 to 10 days, depending on the severity of the infection. Stopping antibiotics prematurely can lead to incomplete eradication of the bacteria, potentially resulting in a resurgence of the infection and contributing to antibiotic resistance. This is a significant concern in pediatric medicine, as inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to resistant strains of bacteria that are harder to treat in the future.

Your hesitation to continue with long-term medication is understandable, especially considering the potential side effects and the burden of medication on a young child’s body. However, if the doctor has prescribed a longer course, it is typically for a reason, such as ensuring that the infection is fully treated. If you are concerned about the side effects or the necessity of the medication, it would be prudent to have a detailed discussion with your child's healthcare provider. They can provide clarity on the necessity of the treatment, possible alternatives, and the implications of not completing the prescribed course.

In addition to medication, managing allergies often involves environmental control measures. This can include minimizing exposure to known allergens, using air purifiers, and ensuring that your child’s living space is free from dust and other irritants. Over-the-counter antihistamines may also be considered to help alleviate allergy symptoms, but these should be discussed with your pediatrician to ensure they are appropriate for your child’s age and health status.

In summary, while Leucomycin may help address a bacterial infection, it is essential to follow the prescribed course unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. Additionally, consider discussing allergy management strategies that do not solely rely on medication. Your child's health and comfort are paramount, and open communication with your healthcare provider will help you navigate these concerns effectively.

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