Originally Posted On: https://www.mindworkstx.com/medication-management-top-side-effects-safety-tips-parents-should-know/

Medication Management for Children

What Is Medication Management?

Medication management is a process in which a patient’s healthcare providers, including doctors, psychiatrists, and other caregivers, collaborate to prescribe medications and monitor medication use to ensure they are working as intended. In the case of patients who are children or teens, their parents or caregivers will also be included in this process. Medication management is important, particularly when it comes to managing mental health conditions safely and effectively. It is also essential to ensure that the patient is currently prescribed the right dose and that their medication is the right fit.

At Mind Works, we highly value medication safety and effective medication therapy management. You can trust your child or teen with our expert staff.

Why Is Medication Management Different for Children?

Medication management is different and can be even more critical for children because they have different mental and physical needs than adults. Because they are still developing, certain prescription medications may affect them differently than they would affect adults. Therefore, it can be tricky and somewhat unpredictable to know how a child will respond and whether they may have any potential side effects.

There are several different factors that can influence how a child will respond to a certain type of medication. This can include their weight, gender, age, and whether or not they are prone to any drug interactions or sensitivities. These are all factors that a healthcare professional must consider as part of the medication management process.

Another reason medication management is different for children is that they cannot always accurately express what they are thinking or feeling. Because of this, it can be more challenging to determine how they may be responding to new medications and whether or not those medications are working as intended. As a result, parents and other adults in the child’s life have to play an active role in medication management by observing their behavior. They must also keep an eye out for any potential side effects and report these back to the child’s care team.

Why Does My Child Need Medication?

There are many different reasons why a child may need a certain medication. They may be struggling with severe anxiety or depression. A child may be struggling with a condition like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and have trouble focusing in school. They have already been seeing a therapist, but are still not experiencing relief. Their mental health may be making it difficult to function in their day-to-day life.

There is also the chance that a child is struggling with things like self-harm, intentionally dangerous behavior, or even suicidal thoughts. Clinicians may believe that a prescription drug will improve their overall quality of life and reduce their symptoms in a way that therapy might not be able to accomplish.

What Common Conditions in Children Are Treated With Medication?

There are a lot of different mental health or behavioral conditions in children that can be treated with medication. A child’s treatment plan will typically involve continued therapy alongside medication. Some common conditions in children that may be relieved by prescribing medication include:

• Anxiety or panic disorders
• Depression
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Behavior disorders such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD), or intermittent explosive disorder (IED)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Sleep disorders due to mental health struggles
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Why Is Medication Management Important for Children?

Medication management is important for children to ensure patient safety and to avoid potential medication errors. It is especially critical for children because they are still physically developing. Therefore, it is essential to ensure the medication will not disrupt their development or lead to negative side effects. It is also important to ensure that they’re on the correct dose of medication.

Medication management can help to avoid over-medicating or under-medicating. This is why healthcare providers will generally start the patient out on the lowest necessary dose, monitor their symptoms, and then determine if the dose needs to be increased or decreased. If the child reaches the point at which they no longer need a certain medication, the healthcare provider can then determine if it is the right time to discontinue prescribing it.

Medication management is also important for children because a child’s needs can change as they age and their development progresses. Because of this, it is essential to monitor a child’s symptoms and behaviors over time. While a child may need a specific medication when they’re young, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll need it as they grow older. Similarly, the dosage that a child may need of a particular medication can also change as they age.

Finally, medication management is important because it allows parents to play an active role in their child’s treatment. While a doctor or therapist may see a child every few weeks or months, the parent or caregiver is going to be the one who sees them every day. They’ll be able to provide the doctor with critical observations about the child’s moods and behavior. This can help to ensure that any side effects or symptoms are addressed quickly and that the child is getting the high-quality care they need.

Types of Medications

What Medications Are Given to Children?

The type of medication that may be prescribed to a child depends on their unique situation and the particular mental health or behavioral problem that they’re struggling with. If the child is struggling with anxiety or depression, a doctor will prescribe an SSRI or SNRI such as sertraline or fluoxetine. This can help improve their mood and calm their anxiety.

If a child is struggling with ADHD, a doctor might prescribe a stimulant such as Ritalin, Adderall, or Vyvanse. These medications can help the child focus better and remain on task. It can also help improve their attention span.

If a child is struggling with severe aggression, irritability, or a condition such as bipolar disorder, there are a few different medications that a doctor may prescribe. One option is olanzapine, which is known by the brand name Zyprexa. This is typically used to help with mood problems. Other options could include risperidone or aripiprazole.

A doctor may also prescribe a mood stabilizer for children who struggle with bipolar disorder or mood swings. Some examples include lithium or valproic acid. These can help with mood regulation and can relieve manic episodes.

Some children may struggle with sleep problems like insomnia that are related to other mental health disorders. For example, their sleep issues may be linked to anxiety, unresolved trauma, or even ADHD. If a child’s sleep issues aren’t especially severe, they may benefit from supplements like melatonin. In more severe cases and if a child is older, a doctor may prescribe a drug called trazodone.

At Mind Works, it is important to note that medication is always prescribed alongside therapy. 

Is the Medication My Child Is Taking Safe?

It is normal to have some concerns about the safety of the medication that your child is taking and how it might affect them. As long as the medication is prescribed by an experienced and qualified clinician and carefully managed, it is considered safe. Side effects can occur; however, they can typically be quickly managed. In order to limit or prevent these side effects, doctors will typically start a child out on a low dose and will increase it over time if necessary.

Safety also depends upon ensuring that the child is on the correct dose of a certain medication. This depends on a variety of factors such as the child’s specific symptoms, their age, and their weight. To help ensure safety, parents should always make their child’s doctors aware of any allergies or drug interactions the child has experienced.

Proper medication administration is also critical in ensuring a child’s safety. All medications, whether they be prescription or over-the-counter medications, should also be taken exactly as instructed. Parents should ensure their child takes the correct amount of a particular medication, skips no doses, and takes it at the proper time.

Will My Child Always Need to Take Medication?

No, just because a child is prescribed a certain medication when they’re young doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll have to take it the rest of their life. How long they need to take medication is dependent upon their unique needs, symptoms, and condition.

Understanding the Side Effects of Medications

What Are the Possible Side Effects That My Child Could Experience When Taking Medications?

The side effects that your child could experience when taking medications are dependent upon several factors, including the type of medication that is being prescribed and what other health conditions they may have.

Some of the most common side effects that can be associated with medication include:

• Sleep changes
• Mood changes
• Fatigue
• Heachaches
• Appetite changes
• Nausea
• Stomach problems
• Changes in blood pressure
• Irritability
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness

Can Certain Medications Interact With Other Medications My Child Might Need to Take?

Yes, certain medications can interact with one another. That’s why it’s important to always provide your child’s doctor with a full list of medications that they’re taking and always check with them first before a child starts taking a new medication. Medication management and always making sure your child is taking medication properly can help prevent this.

What Should I Do If I See My Child Experiencing Side Effects?

If you see that your child is experiencing certain side effects, you should always make their doctor aware of it as soon as possible.

Are the Effects Long-Term?

The effects can be long-term, depending on the child’s specific condition.

Can Certain Medications Be Addictive?

Yes, certain medications can be addictive. This is why proper medication management is so important.

Can Certain Medications Interfere With My Child’s Development?

Yes, certain medications can interfere with a child’s development. Proper medication management and monitoring your child closely can help prevent this.

How Can I Tell if My Child’s Medication Is Causing Behavioral or Mood Changes?

You can watch for major changes to your child’s typical personality that seem uncharacteristic of them. Some examples of this could include:

• Irritability
• Agression
• Emotional outbursts
• Anxiety
• Trouble sleeping
• Withdrawing from loved ones
• Seeming “zoned out”
• No longer interested in their usual hobbies or activities

Medication Management Safety Measures at Home

What Is the Best Way to Educate Myself About The Medication My Child Is Taking?

You should be sure to talk to your child’s doctor about any potential questions or concerns you may have. If you have additional questions, you could also speak with a pharmacist when picking up your child’s medication.

How Can I Safely Organize and Store My Child’s Medications at Home?

You should always keep medication in a locked box or in a cabinet where children won’t have access to it without your awareness. Using a medication organizer or pill box can also help track doses and ensure that your child doesn’t miss a dose. Make sure to always label medication with your child’s name and keep it in a safe, dry spot.

How Can I Safely Dispose of Medications?

The DEA, some pharmacies, and many hospitals offer drug take-back programs to ensure that medications are disposed of safely and properly.

Should I Educate Other Responsible Family Members in the Home About My Child’s Medication Needs?

Yes, it is very important to educate anyone who is going to be around your child on a regular basis about their medication needs. This includes not only other family members, but teachers and coaches as well.

Administering Medication

Can I Replace My Child’s Medication With a Similar Medication If I Don’t Have Theirs on Hand?

No, you should never replace your child’s medication because this can lead to dangerous side effects. You should always reach out to your child’s doctor immediately for guidance. You can also request a partial refill of a particular medication if a full refill is not available immediately.

What Happens if My Child Misses a Dose?

If only a short amount of time has passed since the child missed a dose, it is generally okay to allow them to take the dose late and then ensure they return to their typical daily schedule.

How Do I Navigate Medication Management During School Hours or When My Child Is Away From Home?

Managing your child’s medication during school hours or when they’re away from home involves clear communication and preparation. Notify school staff, such as teachers and nurses, about your child’s medication needs and provide written instructions along with the medication in the original container. It’s important to create a medication schedule, set reminders, and teach your child how to properly take their medication. Also, fill out any necessary authorization forms and ensure the school knows how to handle emergencies or missed doses.

Regularly review the medication plan with healthcare providers and update school staff as needed. Maintaining an open line of communication ensures your child’s safety and helps them adhere to their medication routine smoothly while at school or elsewhere. Would you like me to help you with a sample note or checklist for this process?

In Case of Emergency

How Can I Prepare in Case of an Emergency?

You can prepare for a potential emergency by ensuring that anyone caring for your child has all the necessary information about their medication and knows who to contact if the child experiences any side effects. Keeping a digital copy of any critical information, including your child’s insurance details, any medications or allergies they have, and their doctor’s contact information, is always a good idea.

What Emergency Numbers Should I Have on Hand?

You should have the numbers for all local emergency services, your child’s doctor, their therapist or counselor, and the numbers of any trusted family members who may need to be contacted in the case of an emergency.

How Often Should I Communicate With My Child’s Health Care Provider About Their Medication?

It is important to collaborate with your child’s health care provider about their medication on a regular basis. You don’t want to wait until there is a problem with the medication to reach out. Instead, you should continuously update your child’s doctor about their progress and let them know how the medication is working.

FAQs About Medication Management For Children

Are there any natural or alternative remedies that can safely complement my child’s medication?

Yes, there are some natural and alternative remedies that your child can take along with their regular medication. However, it is important to always speak with their doctor first and ensure that these remedies are administered responsibly and under the supervision of an adult.

Are there environmental factors that can affect how well my child’s medication works?

Yes, there can be some environmental factors that can affect how well your child’s medication works, including their sleep habits, nutrition, whether or not their home life is stable, hormonal changes, or if they are missing doses.

How can I support my child’s emotional well-being while they are on medication?

While your child is on medication, it is important to continuously reassure them and to make sure that they understand that the fact that they’re on medication is not something to be embarrassed or ashamed of. For more information about how to support your child, reach out to our team at Mind Works. 

Medication can often be a critical tool that can help to effectively manage mental and behavioral health problems in children. However, medication is rarely considered a good first resort. Most doctors will recommend that the child attend counseling first. Then, later on, if their condition has not improved, the doctor may prescribe medication. Medication management can reduce potential side effects and ensure the patient’s safety. It is important for parents to always educate themselves about the medications their child takes and to know what potential side effects to expect. If you think that your child may need medication, our team at Mind Works can help. We’ll ensure that you know what to expect throughout the process. Call (210) 366-3700 today.