Teak or teething is a natural process where a child’s primary teeth start to emerge from the gums. This can begin as early as three months and can continue until the age of three.

However, teething can be a painful and uncomfortable process for children, making parents seek ways to ease their child’s discomfort. One way to relieve this discomfort is by giving medication. But when is it appropriate to give medication to a child with teak?.

Symptoms of Teething

Before understanding when it’s appropriate to give medication to children with teak, it’s important to identify the symptoms of teething. These symptoms may differ from child to child, but they commonly include:.

Drooling
Red or swollen gums
Irritability and fussiness
Trouble sleeping
Loss of appetite
Ear pulling
Cheek rubbing
Biting or gnawing on objects

Types of Medication for Teething

There are different types of medication that parents can use to ease their child’s teething discomfort. They include:.

: Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is commonly known as Tylenol. It’s a pain reliever and fever reducer that can help relieve teething discomfort in children. Acetaminophen comes in liquid, tablet, and suppository form.

However, parents should follow the dosing instructions carefully to avoid overdosing.

: Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is commonly known as Advil or Motrin. It’s also a pain reliever and fever reducer that can help relieve teething discomfort. However, it’s only recommended for children six months or older.

Parents should follow the dosing instructions carefully to avoid overdosing.

: Benzocaine

Benzocaine is a numbing agent that’s commonly found in teething gels and creams. It can help relieve teething discomfort by numbing the gums.

However, the FDA has warned against using benzocaine products on children younger than two years old due to the risk of methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious condition that reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood.

When is it Appropriate to Give Medication?

There’s no single answer to this question as it depends on various factors, such as the child’s age, weight, and overall health. However, parents should consider the following before giving medication to their child:.

: The child’s age

Parents should read the label and follow the dosing instructions carefully to avoid overdosing. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are only recommended for infants who are six months or older.

However, if the child is younger than six months, parents should consult their pediatrician and follow their recommendation.

: The child’s weight

The dosing instructions for medication are based on weight rather than age. Therefore, parents should weigh their child accurately and give the appropriate dose. Giving an improper dose can result in an overdose, which can be fatal.

: The child’s overall health

If the child has an underlying condition, such as liver or kidney disease, parents should consult their pediatrician before giving medication to avoid any adverse effects.

: The severity of the symptoms

If the child’s symptoms are mild, parents can try non-medical remedies, such as teething rings, cold washcloths, or massaging the gums. However, if the symptoms are severe, medication may be necessary to relieve the discomfort.

Conclusion

Teething can be a painful and uncomfortable process for children. Parents can use medication such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and benzocaine to relieve the discomfort.

However, it’s important to consider the child’s age, weight, and overall health before giving medication. Parents should follow the dosing instructions carefully to avoid overdosing, which can result in serious consequences. In case of any doubts, parents should consult their pediatrician before giving medication.