Are the Medications My Child Takes Safe? Pharmacy Practices

Q: Are the Medications My Child Takes Safe? Pharmacy Practices

Hello： As a mother, one is very cautious about various aspects concerning children, especially regarding medications. <br>As consumers, we must ensure that machines are cleaned daily, as the medications from the previous patient may not be suitable for you, and it is also unsafe

Is the medication my child is taking safe?

We usually get our medications from a nearby clinic, where they are conveniently packaged in individual doses.
A few days ago, I took my child there, and the machine happened to be broken, so we had to wait for the pharmacist to manually package the medications.
While waiting at the counter, I saw that machine, and it had a lot of powdered medications on it, some of which had already turned brown.
The technician brought a bunch of instruments and dropped two brown cloths on the floor.
I couldn't help but wonder if the medications we had taken before were packaged in such a manner.
Over the past few days, I asked some friends if they knew whether the medications were safe.
One of them even suggested that adding more medication would enhance the effect.
I want to ask, is this really safe? Is that machine hygienic?

Xiao Zheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/19

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology

Hello: As a mother, one is very cautious about various aspects concerning children, especially regarding medications.
As consumers, we must ensure that machines are cleaned daily, as the medications from the previous patient may not be suitable for you, and it is also unsafe regarding medication administration.
Your friend might be joking with you; however, our pediatric grinding machines are cleaned every day.
If the previous patient had medications that are sedatives or anticonvulsants, these should not be casually handled by normal children.
We immediately clean the machines to prevent any drug residue from affecting the next patient.
Is this response acceptable? Wishing you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2006/07/19

More Info

When it comes to the safety of medications for children, particularly in a pharmacy setting, there are several important factors to consider. Your concerns about the cleanliness and safety of the medications your child is receiving are valid and warrant a thorough discussion.

First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that pharmacies are regulated environments. They must adhere to strict guidelines set forth by health authorities to ensure the safety and efficacy of medications. This includes proper storage, handling, and dispensing of pharmaceuticals. If you observed unsanitary conditions, such as dirty equipment or improperly handled medications, it is crucial to report these concerns to the pharmacy management or local health department. Such practices can compromise the quality of the medications and pose risks to patients, especially vulnerable populations like children.

Regarding the specific medications your child is taking, it’s vital to ensure that they are appropriate for their age, weight, and medical condition. Pediatric dosing is often different from adult dosing, and medications must be carefully calculated based on the child's weight. For instance, medications like Panadol (acetaminophen) should be dosed at 10-15 mg per kilogram of body weight, and antibiotics like Erythromycin should be dosed at 30-50 mg per kilogram per day, divided into multiple doses. If you have concerns about the dosages prescribed, it’s advisable to consult with a pediatrician or a pharmacist who specializes in pediatric care.

Moreover, the idea that "more medication equals better results" is a dangerous misconception. Overdosing can lead to serious side effects and complications. Each medication has a therapeutic window, and exceeding the recommended dose can result in toxicity. Always follow the prescribed dosages and consult with healthcare professionals if you feel that the treatment plan is not appropriate.

In terms of pharmacy practices, the use of automated dispensing machines is common in many pharmacies to enhance efficiency and accuracy. However, these machines must be regularly maintained and cleaned to prevent contamination. If you notice that the machine appears dirty or malfunctioning, it raises legitimate concerns about the pharmacy's overall hygiene practices. It’s essential for pharmacies to maintain a clean environment to ensure that the medications dispensed are safe for consumption.

If you have ongoing concerns about the medications your child is taking or the practices of the pharmacy, consider seeking a second opinion from another healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide reassurance and clarity regarding the safety of the medications and the appropriateness of the treatment plan.

In summary, the safety of medications for children is paramount, and it is crucial to ensure that they are dispensed in a clean and regulated environment. Always verify dosages, question any practices that seem unsanitary, and do not hesitate to seek additional guidance from healthcare professionals. Your child's health and safety should always come first, and being an informed advocate for their care is an essential part of that process.

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