Back to School Colds and Understanding Pain Relievers for Children and Recent Recalls

Dr. Alexander, how can parents confirm what products were involved in the recent recalls of over the counter medications?

I would recommend that parents check on the web. The products recalled are certain brands of children's acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

The best option to find out exactly which products were recalled is to visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's website, http://www.fda.gov/.

How come Children's and Infant's Advil were not subject to the recall?

Children's Advil® and Infant's Advil® were not part of the recall because they are made by a different manufacturer and this manufacturer has not had any safety or manufacturing issues.

What is the difference between pediatric acetaminophen and pediatric ibuprofen?

Pediatric acetaminophen and pediatric ibuprofen are both products that can treat fever and pain. Pediatric ibuprofen is a little bit more effective as far as I'm concerned because it has a faster onset of action and it also lasts longer. Ibuprofen lasts 6 to 8 hours and acetaminophen lasts approximately 4 hours.  There are also some safety concerns with acetaminophen.  It is one of most overdosed drugs and it has very serious consequences when it comes to kidney and liver issues if there is an overdose.

When is it appropriate to give these medications? What symptoms will they help? How do you know which medication to give?

In general, they are both used for pain and fever reduction. Children's Advil®, which contains the active ingredient ibuprofen, is indicated for reducing fever and helping with the minor aches and pains due to colds, the flu, sore throat, headache or toothache. If you have other issues beyond those, or if fever lasts longer than a couple of days, you should consult with your pediatrician.

Dr. Alexander, what else do you want to tell us about using over the counter pain relief?

Although there is no cure for the common cold, it's helpful to know that there are some things parents can do to help their child deal with the aches and pains of  colds and relieve some of the misery so they can still enjoy and take part in their activities. Children's Advil®, for example, helps temporarily reduce fever and relieve minor aches and pains associated with the common cold.

The company that makes Children's Advil® has done a nice job helping parents understand how to relieve colds by providing information on their website, www.ChildrensAdvilSolutions.com.

As with any medication, you should consult with your doctor prior to giving it to your children. You can help prevent colds in your child by following these tips:

• • • • • • Encourage your child to wash their hands often
          • Ensure your children get plenty of rest
          • Eat healthy, nutritious foods
          • Encourage outside play and avoid places with poor air circulation and ventilation. Being in small, enclosed spaces or in constant air conditioning can boost your child's chances of catching a cold.

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