How Often Can a Child Take Antibiotics?
Blue Daily
| 3 min read
When children are sick, it’s understandable to want an urgent fix. But asking a doctor for an antibiotic might not be the best move – or the right one – in every situation.
Antibiotics are life-saving when used correctly. However, they only treat certain infections caused by bacteria. Many illnesses children encounter are caused by viruses – like the common cold, coughs, sore throats, or the flu. On average, children get sick with three to eight viral respiratory illnesses each year.
How many times can a child take antibiotics in a year?
Doctors are careful to use antibiotics only when they’re needed. That’s because overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which means the bacteria no longer responds to the drugs designed to kill them.
Antibiotic resistance is a major public health issue, as few treatment options exist for people infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. So while there's no set minimum or maximum amount of times a year a child can take antibiotics, it's crucial for parents to consult with their child's pediatrician or primary care provider (PCP) to determine if antibiotics are needed.
Illnesses treatable with antibiotics
Some illnesses caused by bacteria that would require an antibiotic include:
- Strep throat, when verified by a positive strep test
- Whooping cough
- Urinary tract infection
- Dental abscess
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Skin infection, including cellulitis
- Ear infections
Ear infections can be caused by both viruses and bacteria. It’s important to work with the child’s PCP to evaluate whether antibiotics are needed to treat the infection. Many earaches can resolve themselves on their own.
Side effects of antibiotics in children
Antibiotics typically cause side effects. Common ones include:
- Skin rash
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Yeast infections
- Diarrhea
They can also cause a c. diff infection, and severe and life-threatening allergic reactions. If you are concerned your child may be experiencing one of these, seek emergency care right away.
Safely administering medication
Here are some tips to give children medicine safely:
- Take the medication as directed by the doctor.
- Even if symptoms resolve after two to three days, it’s important to finish the entire course of medication that’s been prescribed to ensure it is effective.
- Follow any instructions from the pharmacy on how to properly store the medication.
- For young children, use a syringe – often provided by the pharmacy – to administer the medication.
- Never use a kitchen spoon or teaspoon to measure medicine.
- Don’t save unused medication; dispose of it properly.
- Don’t use medication prescribed to someone else.
- Don’t share medication.
What to do when a child is sick
If your child is sick and you’re wondering whether he or she has a bacterial or viral infection, consult with a PCP first. Many primary care offices offer same-day services for sick patients, such as walk-in hours, reserved appointments for sick patients and virtual visits online or by telephone.
Consulting with your child’s primary care doctor first can help determine the best next steps to help your child feel well again.
More from MI Blue Daily:
- Why Do Kids Need So Many Shots Today?
- Dutton Farm’s Financial Literacy Program Helps Adults With Developmental Disabilities in Southeast Michigan Gain Financial Independence
- Why You Feel So Grumpy When You’re Sick
Photo credit: Getty Images
