Concerns About Overmedication in Young Children: A Case Study

Daughter has taken an overdose of medication?

The little girl is currently one year and three months old, weighing approximately 9.2 kg.
She visited the clinic on the 21st and was diagnosed with acute pharyngitis.
The physician prescribed a three-day supply of medication to be taken three times a day, every six hours.
However, the pharmacist mistakenly dispensed a two-day supply of six packets, which is equivalent to 1.5 times the normal dosage.
The prescription is as follows:
- Drug Code: A004737100, Drug Name: PILIAN TABLETS "Y.S.", Dosage Form: Tablet, Manufacturer: Yung Shin Pharmaceutical
- Drug Code: A029216100, Drug Name: VITABUTYRIMIN TABLETS "T.F.", Dosage Form: Tablet, Manufacturer: Taifeng Pharmaceutical
- Drug Code: A030467100, Drug Name: ASUMALIFE CAPSULES 1MG (KETOTIFEN), Dosage Form: Capsule, Manufacturer: Yung Shin Pharmaceutical
The question is whether the excessive dosage of these medications (four packets have already been consumed) could have any adverse effects on the child's health.

Du Zi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/22

Dr. Zhang Guozhen reply Pediatrics

Dr.
Chang Kuo-Chen, the head of the Pediatrics Department at Zhudong Hospital, responded as follows: According to the inquiry, all three medications mentioned are generally considered safe.
Pilian is an antihistamine used to treat nasal congestion and runny nose, with drowsiness being a common side effect.
ASUMALIFE (KETOTIFEN) is a mast cell stabilizer with a high safety profile, often used for the management of allergic children.
VITABUTYRIMIN TABLETS are gastric medications, and it should not pose significant issues if discontinued.
If there are any concerns, please consult a pediatric specialist nearby.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you well.

Reply Date: 2005/07/22

More Info

When it comes to the medication of young children, especially in cases of acute illnesses like acute pharyngitis, it is crucial to ensure that the dosages prescribed are accurate and appropriate for their age and weight. In your case, your daughter, who is 1 year and 3 months old and weighs approximately 9.2 kg, was prescribed medication for her condition. However, there was a mix-up in the pharmacy that resulted in her receiving a dosage that is 1.5 times the intended amount.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that young children metabolize medications differently than adults. Their bodies are still developing, and they may be more sensitive to the effects of medications. Overmedication can lead to a variety of adverse effects, including but not limited to gastrointestinal disturbances, increased heart rate, drowsiness, or even more severe reactions depending on the specific medication involved.

In your case, the medications listed include PILIAN TABLETS, VITABUTYRIMIN TABLETS, and ASUMALIFE CAPSULES (Ketotifen). Each of these medications has its own profile of potential side effects. For instance, Ketotifen is an antihistamine that can cause sedation, dry mouth, and in some cases, irritability or hyperactivity in children. If your daughter has already consumed four packs of the medication, it is essential to monitor her closely for any signs of adverse reactions, such as excessive drowsiness, difficulty breathing, or any unusual behavior.

Given that she has ingested a higher dosage than intended, I strongly recommend that you contact her pediatrician or a poison control center immediately for guidance. They can provide specific advice based on the medications involved and her current health status. It is also advisable to keep a record of the medications she has taken, including the times and amounts, to provide accurate information to the healthcare professionals.

In addition to seeking immediate medical advice, it is essential to prevent such incidents in the future. Always double-check the medication and dosage with the pharmacist when picking up prescriptions, especially for young children. If there is any uncertainty, do not hesitate to ask questions or request clarification. It is also beneficial to keep an open line of communication with your child's healthcare providers regarding any concerns about medications and their effects.

In summary, while the situation is concerning, prompt action can help mitigate any potential risks associated with the overmedication. Monitoring her closely and seeking professional medical advice is the best course of action to ensure her safety and well-being.

Similar Q&A

Addressing Attention Deficit in Young Children: Medication vs. Therapy Options

My child is currently 5 and a half years old and is in kindergarten. The school teacher has repeatedly reported that my son has difficulty concentrating and often seems to be daydreaming. Tasks that other children may complete in 20 minutes may take my son half a day to finish. R...

Dr. Lai Yanting reply Rehabilitation
1. The definition of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) includes clinical symptoms that appear before the age of seven, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms must be more severe than those of other children of the same age and must occur...

Managing ADHD in Children with Autism: Medication and Behavioral Strategies

Dear Dr. Liang, My child has severe multiple disabilities and is diagnosed with autism. Since starting junior high school (currently in the first year), his condition has become quite unstable. He is currently taking the following medications: DEPAKINE (500 mg) one tablet in the...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: Caring for a child with severe autism is a long and challenging journey, so please take care of yourself first. The symptoms and behaviors of your child are not anyone's fault. You have clearly described your child's condition and the efforts you have made in the...

Understanding and Managing Hyperactivity in Young Children: A Guide for Parents

My child is currently a first-grade student, but every time I ask him to sit down to do his homework or study, he cannot settle down. He fidgets and often engages in other activities, like doodling with colored pens. Sometimes, when he's playing games, he gets overly excited...

Dr. Su Hongci reply Rehabilitation
Hello: Regarding the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children, they typically include inattention, poor impulse control, and motor coordination difficulties. It is advisable to consult a pediatric neurologist or a pediatric behavioral specialist for...

Managing Uncontrollable Body Tremors in Children with Anxiety Disorders

My daughter, who is in the ninth grade, has been diagnosed by a psychologist with Asperger's syndrome combined with anxiety, irritability, and emotional instability. She has been taking Buspirone for nearly a year. Three weeks ago, one night, she experienced involuntary shak...

Dr. Wang Yazhen reply Psychiatry
Hello, Afun's mom: I understand that your child's condition must be very concerning for you, and I appreciate your efforts. Regarding the issue of tics, the pediatric neurologist should have initially ruled out neurological disorders after examination; tics may be a phy...