Allergies are a common health concern for many children, potentially impacting their comfort and daily activities. Safely administering medication to alleviate these symptoms is a key concern for parents. Understanding the appropriate age guidelines and types of allergy medications is important for effective and safe treatment.
Understanding Allergy Medications
Allergy medications address the body’s reaction to allergens in different ways. Antihistamines block histamine, a chemical the immune system releases during an allergic reaction, reducing symptoms like itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
Nasal corticosteroids reduce inflammation within nasal passages, alleviating congestion. Decongestants shrink swollen tissues in the nose, providing relief from stuffiness. These different mechanisms mean each medication targets specific aspects of an allergic response.
Age-Specific Guidelines for Common Medications
When considering over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications for children, age-specific guidelines are important. Diphenhydramine, often known as Benadryl, is not recommended for children under six years unless advised by a doctor. For children aged 6 to 11 years, the dosage is 25 mg every four to six hours, with a maximum of 150 mg in 24 hours. For those 12 years and older, the dose is 25 mg to 50 mg every four to six hours, not exceeding 300 mg in 24 hours.
Second-generation antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are preferred for less drowsiness. Loratadine is not recommended for children under two years. For children aged 2 to 5 years, the dose is 2.5 mg daily, and for those 6 years and older, it is 5 mg to 10 mg daily. Cetirizine liquid can be prescribed by a doctor for children as young as one year old. Children aged two to five years can take cetirizine liquid bought from pharmacies, with an initial dose of 2.5 mg daily, increasing to a maximum of 5 mg per day. For children 6 to 11 years old, the dose is 5 mg twice a day, or 10 mg once daily.
Fexofenadine (Allegra) is another second-generation antihistamine approved for use in children six months and older. For seasonal allergic rhinitis, children aged 2 to 11 years take 30 mg orally twice a day. For chronic hives, children aged 6 to 24 months may take 15 mg orally twice daily, and those aged 2 to 11 years may take 30 mg orally twice daily. When selecting medication, parents should carefully read product labels to ensure correct dosing and consider liquid forms for younger children who may have difficulty with chewable tablets.
Important Safety Considerations
Administering allergy medication to children requires attention to safety. Dosage instructions must be followed precisely, as they are often determined by the child’s weight or age. Never give adult medications to children, as their developing systems are more susceptible to adverse effects.
Be aware of active ingredients to prevent accidental overdosing, especially if a child is taking multiple cold or flu medications with similar components. Some allergy medications can cause side effects such as drowsiness or hyperactivity. Use provided measuring devices, like syringes or spoons, to ensure accurate dosing, as household spoons can be inaccurate. If unsure about dosing or ingredients, consult a pharmacist.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Knowing when to consult a healthcare professional about a child’s allergies is important. If a child is below the minimum age for over-the-counter medications, professional guidance is needed. Consult a doctor if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsen despite medication.
Concerns about side effects or unexpected reactions to medication require medical attention. For a proper diagnosis of allergies or to develop a comprehensive, long-term management plan, a healthcare provider can conduct testing and recommend treatments. Seek professional advice if a child has other health conditions or is taking other medications, to avoid potential interactions.